Flexco introduce state-of-the-art test rig

New testing platform to boost product development efficiency and accelerate design process

FLEXCO have recently added a new state-of-the-art, custom-made 533kN capacity test rig to their product development lab, a move which, the company says, will boost product development efficiency, accelerate the design and testing of new conveyor belt products and make way for new concepts and solutions.

‘The diversified product offering at Flexco, combined with increased belt tensions and the continuing evolution of belt construction, prompted us to invest in this new rig,’ said Greg Westphall, director of engineering at Flexco. ‘It’s a one-of-a-kind machine designed and built by Flexco to enhance our testing platform and accelerate our design process.’

Although the new rig is a significant upgrade from the company’s previous one, it is not designed to replace field-testing. Instead, the new test rig will ensure that products have undergone rigorous in-house testing before being placed in the field.

Moreover, while the company’s previous test rig was focused mainly on testing mechanical belt fastening systems, the new rig will test the full line of Flexco products, including trackers, cleaners, plows, rollers, and lagging.

Located in close proximity to the engineering department at Flexco’s Downers Grove headquarters in Illinois, the DIN-22110-2 Standard rig measures 7.3m in height, 3.6m in width and weighs approximately 27 tonnes.

It is equipped with six lagged 800mm pulleys with a maximum belt speed of around 8m/s. Belt widths from 200mm to 900mm can be tested, while tension can be cycled dynamically up to 533kN of force.

The rig also features HMI touch-screen technology, hydraulically-actuated dynamic tracking, and a perimeter catwalk for easy viewing and testing. The new design also allows for greater accessibility of data-acquisition equipment, including high-speed cameras and vibration and force transducers.

‘While the capabilities of the rig are impressive, the size offers additional benefits,’ said Mr Westphall. ‘When you can test cleaning, fastening, tracking, and other product functions all at the same time, you not only gauge the performance of individual products, but also their compatibility. This aligns with the Flexco philosophy of a holistic approach to maximizing belt conveyor productivity.’