Conveyor cover is a protective device installed above the open-air or semi-open-air conveyor (mainly belt conveyor), whose main function is to protect the conveyed materials and the conveyor equipment itself from the impact of bad weather (especially rain). It is an indispensable and important part of the continuous bulk material conveying system.
Core Role and Value
Rain and Moisture Protection: This is the most basic and important function. This is the most basic and important function. It prevents rainwater from wetting the materials (such as coal, ore, grain, fertilizer, cement, etc.), avoids the materials from lumping, muddying, deteriorating, losing or freezing, and ensures the quality of the materials and the conveying efficiency. At the same time, it also prevents rainwater from eroding the conveyor structure, rollers, drums, motors and electrical components, prolonging the life of the equipment and reducing maintenance costs.
Dustproof and dust suppression: At the material transfer point (such as above the guide chute) or when conveying dust-prone materials, the rain cover can effectively block the dust from spreading outward, and with the sealing measures, it can significantly improve the working environment, reduce environmental pollution and meet the requirements of environmental protection.
Sunlight and UV protection: reduce the aging effect of direct sunlight on the conveyor belt (especially the rubber belt), and prolong the service life of the conveyor belt.
Windproof: Reduce the loss of light materials by wind to a certain extent.
Anti-falling foreign objects: Provide a certain physical barrier to prevent accidental falling debris from above from damaging the conveyor belt or injuring people.
Improve the working environment: Provide a relatively sheltered working space for inspection and maintenance personnel.
Typical Structure and Components
Rain hoods are typically modular in design for ease of manufacture, transportation, installation and maintenance. The main components include:
Hood: The main structure, covering the top of the conveyor belt. Common shapes are:
Arch/Dome: Most common, good drainage, high structural strength, large internal space.
Herringbone/Ridge: Similar to a roof, good drainage, suitable for wider conveyor belts.
Flat Roof: Simple structure, low cost, but slightly poorer drainage, need to ensure adequate slope.
Connectors: Used to connect neighboring hood modules to ensure overall sealing and continuity. Usually lap joints, flange connections, etc.
Support Skeleton/Frame: Steel frame to support the hood, fixed on the conveyor frame or legs to ensure the stability and strength of the hood.
Fixings: Bolts, clips, etc., used to firmly fix the hood on the support skeleton.
Observation window/access door (optional): For easy observation of material running condition and internal maintenance.
End baffle/seal (key): Installed at the two ends of the rainproof hood, connecting with the guide chute or transfer point, preventing rainwater from entering and dust from spilling out from the two ends, which is the key to ensure the overall protection effect.
Drainage design: The hood design needs to consider the drainage slope or set up a guide chute to ensure that rainwater can flow away smoothly and does not accumulate on the top of the hood.
