Hihnakuljetin

Hihnakuljetin, in Finnish, refers to the belt conveyor, a continuous transport system used to move materials from one location to another in industrial settings. It typically consists of an endless belt running over pulleys or drums, supported by a framework of rollers and idlers, and driven by a motorized drive pulley. The belt carries the material and can be adapted for various loads, from bulk goods to packaged products.

Key components include the belt itself, drive and tensioning pulleys, idlers (including troughing idlers for bulk materials), a supporting structure, and safety and control devices. Belt materials may be rubber, PVC, or polyurethane, and in heavy-duty applications steel-cord or fabric-reinforced belts may be used. The belt's tension, alignment, and tracking are maintained by tensioning devices and guide rollers.

Configurations include horizontal, inclined, and curved layouts. Types such as troughed belt conveyors transport bulk materials with a shaped belt profile, while pipe conveyors enclose the belt to minimize spillage. Modern systems may integrate variable-speed drives, sensors, and automated controls for feeding, sorting, or transferring loads between conveyors.

Applications span mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. Belt conveyors offer high capacity, efficient long-distance transport, and relatively low operating costs. They are suitable for continuous operations and can handle large, heavy, or abrasive materials when properly designed.

Maintenance and safety are essential; routine inspection of belt wear, tracking, tension, and pulley wear is required, along with lubrication of moving parts and guarding against access to moving components. Proper layout and load management help minimize spillage and product damage.