The CMA invests in research projects solely to make information available to industry. There is always the desire to innovate and improve, discover previously unknown facts and then try out these findings so that the results can be shared with the bulk materials handling industry.
A Panel comprising experts from member companies, Academia and end users supervises and mentors the post-graduates engaged in the research.
Existing Projects
Uni-Directional Rollers
Motivation for this Project is promoting the excellence of belt conveyors in southern Africa and primarily is to draw up recommendations to guide industry on uni-directional rollers as a method of preventing run back in belt conveyors; to set the parameters for the use of non-product specific uni-directional rollers; and to provide calculations for roller manufacturer.
A dedicated test rig was built by CMA members and is currently housed at the premises of a belting manufacturer on the East Rand. A WITS student is conducting the research as part of his MSc Mechanical Engineering degree.
Idler Junction Failure
The Idler Junction Failure Project is being conducted on a test rig built specifically to test the forces causing damage to the belt that are present in the idler junction area. A WITS student, who is employed by the Company that is housing the test rig, is conducting the research as part of his MSc Mechanical Engineering degree.
Future Projects
Future research items have been identified that include
- Water and Dust ingress tests for Idlers
- Pulley Shaft Deflection
- Energy Saving Rubber