Continuing with feedback from the Joint Forum meeting, the second paper presented by Prof Craig Wheeler of the University of Newcastle, compared large-scale indentation rolling resistance test methods for energy efficiency.
Small scale testing was also discussed which includes DMA, Dielectric and Uniaxial pull test. Large Scale testing includes Rotating drum, Inclined-plane and Recirculating belt loop tests. The Rotating Drum and Inclined Plane IRR testing facilities were developed the USA and Poland, respectively.
The Standards test methods used at the University of Newcastle are DIN22123 and AS1334.13.
At the University of Newcastle, the original testing facility for Recirculating Belt Loop had a deadweight load application for a relatively short length of belting, testing to DIN22123. Subsequently a larger test rig was built that is capable of testing to both DIN22123 and AS1334.13. Prof Wheeler elaborated on the Test Data obtained from the new rig and went on to compare the test methods and results.
Advantages of AS1334.13 over DIN22123 were listed as
- Realistic transfer of idler roll loads through the conveyor belt carcass
- The test method can cope with conveyor belts and splices with uneven thicknesses
- High speeds can be tested with relatively small capacity – horizontal – load cells
- Ability to measure belt flexural resistance
Advantages of DIN22123 over AS1334.13 include
- DIN22123 does not flex the conveyor belt over the test idler and does not add an additional horizontal resistance that must be quantified and removed from the final results
- Greater test idler loads are more easily achievable with DIN22123 test method
- The minimum available test idler load for AS1334.13 is defined by the weight of the conveyor belt
It has been recommended that South Africa adopts AS1334.13 and that a local testing rig is built.
Next month we will review the third paper presented at the Joint Forum.
