ABSTRACT
Conveying materials on a conveyor belt remains the most efficient means of moving materials from one place to another. In terms of cost per ton carried, the conveyor belt is extremely cost effective, saves energy, and is unequaled in the field of transportation. Conveyor belts were used to move rock and earth for a distance of 9.6 miles at the Shasta Dam in the Western United States in 1947. The low moisture regain of nylon and polyester allowed belts to be made without molded rubber edges, and consequently slab belting could be made and cut down to the appropriate width, which improved stocking. The belt and conveyor design are becoming increasingly more dedicated, with manufacturers of belt and conveyor consulting in the early stages of development. Steel is drawn to the required filament diameter and cabled to produce the cords used in belting. Zinc or brass coating is required to obtain bonding to rubber and to prevent corrosion.
