Pipebelts

Pipebelts are a type of conveyor system designed to transport bulk materials over long distances and varied terrain. Unlike traditional open belt conveyors, pipebelts enclose the material within a series of shaped idlers that form a tube or pipe. This enclosed design offers several advantages, including the ability to negotiate curves and inclines more effectively, and providing superior protection for the transported material against environmental factors such as wind, rain, and dust.

The system typically consists of a belt that is formed into a circular cross-section around the material. This is achieved by using specialized idler sets arranged in a specific configuration. As the belt travels through these idler sets, it is progressively shaped into a pipe, carrying the material without spillage. At transfer points, the belt is flattened to allow for loading and unloading, and then re-formed into the pipe shape for its journey.

Pipebelts are particularly well-suited for applications where environmental protection is crucial or where the conveyor needs to navigate complex routes. They are often employed in mining, power generation, and port facilities for transporting coal, ore, and other bulk commodities. The enclosed nature of the system also minimizes dust generation, making it an environmentally friendlier option in sensitive areas. The ability to handle inclines and declines means that they can be routed over obstacles or through difficult landscapes without the need for extensive earthworks or multiple transfer points.