The powerhouse of a belt conveyor, known as the driving device, is a marvel of engineering. It comprises an electric motor, coupling or hydraulic coupling, reducer, and transmission drum, all working in perfect harmony. For conveyors with inclined sections, the addition of brakes or backstops is essential to ensure safety. This driving device is the heart of the operation, transferring gravitational force to the conveyor belt via friction with the transmission drum, setting it in motion to transport goods effectively. (Click to explore the 'Specific Applications and Analysis of Advantages and Disadvantages of 9 Drive Devices for Belt Conveyors, Help You Choose the Right One') While the majority of belt conveyors utilize a single drum drive, the increasing demands for greater capacity and longer transportation distances have led to advances in double and multi-drum drives. Each transmission drum can be equipped with one or two robust drive units, where the end of the transmission drum shaft seamlessly connects to the drive unit using a coupling. Most commonly, Y-series cage type electric motors are employed, prized for their compact size, cost-efficiency, reliable performance, and ease of automation. For smaller power needs (≤ 37kW), a direct drive through an elastic coupling is sufficient; however, for higher power demands (45-315kW), a hydraulic coupling ensures a smooth start-up. For substantial power requirements (220-800kW), the use of a wound motor permits easy regulation and facilitates the smooth start of long-distance belt conveyors, skillfully addressing the power balance challenges of multi-drum drives. Modern large-scale conveyors often incorporate bevel gear reducers to minimize the lateral footprint of the conveyor drive, alongside traditional cylindrical gear transmission. In mobile belt conveyors, lightweight design is achieved by incorporating belt, chain, or first-stage open gear transmission devices. Furthermore, innovative solutions such as cycloidal pinwheel reducers or electric drums can also be employed to further enhance efficiency.
