Why Storage Conditions Matter
A conveyor belt stored incorrectly for 12—?4 months can suffer more degradation than a belt that has been running in service for the same period. Ozone attack, UV degradation, compression set, and moisture absorption can all significantly reduce belt performance before it is even installed. Proper storage protects your investment.
The Four Enemies of Stored Rubber Belts
1. Ozone
Ozone (O—? attacks unsaturated rubber compounds (SBR, NR) at the chain double bonds, causing surface crazing and eventual cracking. Sources of ozone near storage areas include electric motors, fluorescent lights, welding equipment, and high-voltage electrical switchgear. Even low concentrations (0.01 ppm) cause significant damage over months.
Rule: Store belts at least 10m from any electric motor or high-voltage equipment.
2. UV Light
Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and some artificial lights causes surface hardening and oxidation of rubber compounds. Even indirect sunlight through windows causes gradual degradation.
Rule: Store in darkness or under opaque covers. Never store outdoors without full weather protection.
3. Heat
Elevated temperatures accelerate all rubber ageing processes. Storage above 30°C approximately doubles the ageing rate compared to storage at 15°C.
Rule: Store below 25°C. Ideal storage temperature: 10—?0°C.
4. Deformation (Flat Storing)
A belt stored flat under its own weight develops permanent compression set in the carcass and covers at the contact points. The belt will be wavy and difficult to track when installed.
Rule: Always store on the original shipping drum. If the drum is unavailable, store on a purpose-built drum of diameter —?the belt's minimum pulley diameter.
Storage Checklist
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 10—?5°C (never below -15°C or above 35°C) |
| Humidity | 40—?0% relative humidity |
| Light | Dark or covered —?no direct sunlight or UV |
| Ozone sources | Minimum 10m from electric motors and switchgear |
| Storage position | Upright on original drum —?never flat |
| Maximum storage period | 2 years (standard NR/SBR); 3 years (EPDM, CR) |
| Drum rotation | Rotate drum 180° every 3 months to prevent flat spots |
—?Before Installing a Stored Belt
Inspect the full belt surface for: surface crazing (fine crack network —?ozone damage), transverse cracks (flexing damage from incorrect storage position), edge cracking, and cover hardness (press thumbnail —?if no impression, rubber has hardened). If any of these are present, the belt should be tested or replaced rather than installed in a critical application.
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