Martin Engineering, known for its innovative solutions in conveyor belt scraper technology, developed a tensioning system that continuously monitors and automatically adjusts the belt scraper tension. N2® TwistTM Tensioner using Martin Engineering’s new smart technology platform, maintains the appropriate pressure force between the scraper tip and the belt while scraper tip provides the best possible scraping performance throughout its lifetime. When the scraper tip needs to be replaced or when there is an abnormal situation, the system warns operators via the Martin Smart Device Manager App. As a result, it enables safer and more efficient scraping performance with less labor and lower operating costs.
As Martin Engineering introduces this new product, they emphasized that they tested this unit, which has been designed for heavy-duty applications, outdoors in harsh environments and applications. They stated that the N2 Twist Tensioner has proven to be a robust and highly effective solution for maximizing both belt scraping efficiency and scraping tip life.
The Importance of Correct Tension
In primary belt scrapers located in the head drum, torsion type, gear wheel ratchet or spring tensioner are generally used to provide effective scraping and material removal by maintaining stable contact between the scraper tip and the conveyor belt. Before the new design developed by Martin Engineering, some applications require manual monitoring and daily correction of belt tensions to ensure optimum pressing force and to prevent material from being carried back. In these conditions, the replacement times of the scraper blades were largely based on guessing
and it was seen that tips that were not changed in time damaged the belt.
Insufficient tension causes carryback to stick to the belt, spills along the way, piling up under the conveyor, and excessive dust dispersal. This not only causes additional manpower for cleaning but can also affect the air quality in the immediate surroundings. Excessive tension on the other hand can cause friction damage on the conveyor side of the belt, premature blade wear and possible splice damage. Unsafe working conditions occur in both scenarios and operating costs may increase significantly.
The Next Step in Tension Technology
The N2 Twist Tensioner sensitively and automatically maintains the scraping pressure over the entire life of the scraper blade without requiring maintenance. This tensioner applies the appropriate amount of torque to provide optimum pressing force at the scraper tip while continuously providing a tight seal along the belt profile and the Constant Angle Radial Pressure (CARP) that can withstand the force exerted by a heavy bulk load supports the scraper design.
Martin Engineering’s smart technology platform monitors blade wear via control systems housed in a weatherproof control panel and informs operators when the tip needs to be changed. Experts recommend replacing the blades before they run the risk of breaking or “twisting” (turning upside down under the head drum). In case of early twisting the operators are warned and the self-releasing coupling of the tensioner releases the scraper tip. The alarm triggered by the scraper blade separation, allows operators to quickly shut down the system, preventing costly belt damage.
Both the tensioner system and the sensors are fed from the same electrical system. The rechargeable 12-volt battery powered unit, can also be supplied to operate with 110-220 V. The system contains all necessary components for installation, depending on the power supply option selected.
Efficient Performance with Less Maintenance
The N2 Twist Tension and Smart Device Manager Application eases the burden on managers and employees and allows them to focus their attention on other critical details of the operation. Sensitive tension adjustment and better scraping performance reduces the amount of dust and debris from the material carried back and while workplace safety is increased, the need for labor related to the maintenance and cleaning of the evacuation zone is reduced.
Martin Engineering describes this new product as a “gamechanger” for bulk materials handling operations struggling with tensioning and carryback problems.