Page 35 - ConveyorBeltMaintenanceManual2010

TEN BEST PRACTICES IN CONVEYOR BELT VULCANIZED SPLICING
On a properly engineered, well-maintained conveyor system, a vulcanized splice done correctly will last for many years
and in many cases will last the life of the belt.
Understanding and following the “TEN BEST PRACTICES IN CONVEYOR BELT SPLICING” is the best way to assure a
vulcanized splice is done correctly.
Correctly performing each of the “TEN BEST PRACTICES IN CONVEYOR BELT SPLICING” when doing a fabric
conveyor belt splice confirms the splicer is in CONTROL OF THE PROCESS.
BEST PRACTICE NO. 1
Process control of the vulcanization curing temperature, curing time and curing pressure is vital.
Thermocouples provide precise temperature monitoring at the platen-belt interface. A minimum of one thermocouple
per platen is required. Thermostats on many vulcanizers do not indicate the actual temperature at the platen-belt
interface. Without precise monitoring, the curing temperature can fluctuate drastically, resulting in a splice that is either
over-cured or under-cured. Either condition will limit the life of the splice. Top splicers such as those who are members
of the Goodyear Engineered Products’ Splice Network will always use thermocouples to monitor and gather cure
temperature data. A record of this data can then be supplied to assure the curing process was done correctly. Top
splicers will also assure that the vulcanizers’ temperature and pressure match those specified in the Goodyear
Engineered Products’ “Splicing Manual of Goodyear Engineered Products Custom Specifications.”
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