Research on contact mechanics characteristics in the transition section of pipe belt conveyor

The pipe belt conveyor, as an efficient and environmentally friendly material transport device, successfully addresses the environmental pollution issues associated with conventional belt conveyors. The transition section, which connects the planar segment to the pipe-shaped segment of the conveyor belt, plays a critical role in ensuring the stability and service life of the conveyor. In this study, the forming curves of the conveyor belt at various cross-sections within the transition section were derived using the Micro-element Forming Method. A finite element model of the conveyor belt-roller group system was established to systematically investigate the effects of different roller arrangements, belt lap lengths, and drum lifting heights on the contact mechanical characteristics. Experimental tests were conducted to validate the accuracy of the model. The results indicate that under a 6/0-type roller arrangement, a belt lap length of 1/3D, and a drum lifting height of h = 0, the dynamic contact forces between the conveyor belt and rollers can be significantly reduced, thereby lowering operation and maintenance costs. This study reveals the mechanisms by which roller contact forces are influenced by multiple factors and proposes an optimized design scheme for the transition section, providing theoretical guidance and technical support for the structural optimization and stable operation of pipe belt conveyors.