ABSTRACT
A number of methods may be used for conveyor belt tension calculations. The two methods most often used for mining conveyor applications in North America are the CEMA method (Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association), and the Goodyear method (Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company). Elsewhere, a host of methods are used, often based on the German Industrial Standard (DIN 22101), or the Mechanical Handling Engineers’ Association method (MHEA). Substantial differences exist between these methods, often leading to confusion, and yielding different values of tensions if used to evaluate identical conveyors. The paper reviews these four methods. The major differences between them are analysed, and the influence of the differences on the accuracy of the results and applicability of each method is discussed Sample belt conveyor tension calculations are presented to illustrate the differences.
