http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyors-blog.html Keep up to date with news at Tekforce Conveyors, as well as in the world of conveyors and bulk equipment; blogs, new products, technology and more. en-us conveyors Tue, 07 Sep 2010 02:32:57 GMT Tue, 07 Sep 2010 02:32:57 GMT tekforce-conveyors.com http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-services.html Waste recycling conveyors operate under demanding applications and require periodic service, repairs and refurbishments. Many problems associated with recycling conveyors are related to the recycled materials and contaminants entering the internals of the conveyor which can cause blockages and premature wear to the chains, belts and components. The best defence for maximising the longevity and production efficiency of recycling conveyors is to implement daily / weekly maintenance inspections and cleaning regimes. In the event the conveyor system requires repairs, refurbishment or preventative maintenance, Tekforce can assist with on-site services or equipment refurbishments at the Thomastown Vic operations facility. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 02:04:26 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/waste-recycling-conveyors.html Tekforce provide a broad range of waste recycling conveyor services, including breakdown repairs and scheduled maintenance on belt conveyors, chain driven conveyors and apron flighted conveyor systems. Additionally to conveyor repairs, Tekforce can assist with installations, fabrications, audit inspections and design services. For all recycling, sortation, pulp and paper and bulk conveyor maintenance requirements, Tekforce can assist with installation, preventative maintenance programs and technical advice. Mon, 06 Sep 2010 07:22:30 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/waste-recycling-conveyors.html Waste recycling conveyors and Municipal Solid Waste conveyors (MSW), designed and manufactured in Australia by Tekforce are a reliable solution for transferring waste materials. Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:06:29 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/trough-conveyors.html De-watering plants, pulp and paper, sludge and recycling materials with high moister content can be successfully transferred between process equipment by implementing trough belt conveyor systems. Correctly designed trough conveyors are capable of withstanding high-moister, high-impact, sharps and harsh environments typically found within de-watering and recycling industries. Belt conveyors can be manufactured from a range of mild and hot dipped galvanized surfaces or stainless steels. Trough conveyors can be constructed by utilising belting on slider bed design or belt running on troughed conveyor idlers. The choice between each optioned is governed by the material and environmental conditions. Belt width and the trough angle is determined by the material capacity and loading arrangement needed. Options such as belt-skirting, belt-cleaners/scrapers, magnetic separators and drive-train selection can be custom designed. Conveyors can be constructed in truss section or modular stringers to assist shipping and installation. Thu, 02 Sep 2010 03:56:46 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-manufacturers.html Tekforce announce the successful integration of an automated chain and roller conveyor system for a leading automotive components manufacturer based in Victoria. Tekforce were commissioned the EPCM for the design, manufacture and installation of the automated conveyor system. The integration focused on safety aspects to reduce the manual handling risk and demarcation from mobile plant, for maneuvering steel stillages and heavy automotive components. Additionally the system enables the work-cell to raise productivity and recoup capital investment in a timely period. Conceptual design is now underway for stage two of the plant upgrade. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 06:46:34 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-services.html Second Hand Conveyors can seem a cost-effective way to procure plant equipment rather than investing in new chain, roller or belt conveyors. Unless due-diligence is undertaken, the perceived bargain can often lead to a costly refurbishment if fundamental mechanical/electrical checks are not adopted. Sometimes plant and machinery such as conveyor systems can have the maintenance budgets removed a long time before the equipment is de-commissioned, leaving the new owner with a fully depreciated and well worn investment. Some basic pre-purchase checks would include: Conveyor components, conveyor idlers and rollers should be checked for worn shafts, tubes and bearings for signs of fatigue. Drive chains, chain wear strips and belting should be checked for excessive wear. The power-train and gear-motor assembly should be appropriate for the conveyor capacity. Check that the duty, torque and output speed are suitable to the new work area. Conveyor stringers and the frame integrity should be inspected for wear. Damaged, buckled or corroded frames can result in belt/chain misalignment, material spillage or safety issues. Safety guarding and devices should be intact and operative. All pulleys, chains and rollers should have guarding applicable to Australian standards requirements AS 1755-2000. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 04:32:23 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-services.html Belt conveyors which are properly designed, constructed, erected, and maintained theoretically will consistently run true without concern for belt misalignment. However, in actuality, properly aligned belts are normally the exception rather than the rule. Belt training troubleshooting guides are available on the web to assist you in your efforts to correct belt misalignment problems that invariably lead to premature failure of belting, idlers, and pulleys. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:57:44 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Electromagnetic vibrating screen feeders are suited for the sizing, separating, de-dusting and dewatering a wide range of products and materials. Vibrating screening feeders are available with various screening sizes and apertures to suit a wide range of material lump sizes and compositions. Feeders are designed for high frequency / low amplitude operation which optimizes the screening of finer materials and reduces degradation of the product. Feeders are available with electronic controllers allowing the feeder to be controlled at the precise vibration amplitude to ensure efficient screening of the product. Screen feeders are low maintenance as there are no moving parts, available in stainless steel decks and screens, full sanitary finishes available, low noise. Base and suspension mounted units available, can be designed with covers, inlets and downspouts. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 06:36:02 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Volumetric feeders provide precise control in transferring dry bulk materials in feeding, blending and packaging applications. Cost-effective and efficient, each volumetric assembly comes complete with a supply hopper, hopper vibrator, electromagnetic feeder, variable speed control and supporting frame. Models are available in mild or stainless steel hoppers and adjustable flow gate to regulate material depth on the feeder trough. Various ranges of hopper and feeder sizes available dependent on the material flow- rate required. Units are extremely reliable as there are no moving parts and have a virtually noiseless operation. Models are available as dust-proof, dust-tight and waterproof construction. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 05:32:49 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Vibrating tables are designed to settle and compact dry bulk materials in various types of containers. Their application provides either a sizable increase in the net weight of the container or a reduction in the container size with subsequent savings in shipping and storage space. Vibrating tables are generally available in three types: electromagnetic, electromechanical and pneumatic and selection is based on the characteristics of the materials or objects being handled, the maximum weight to be handled and type of container. Electromagnetic vibrating tables are the most versatile and widely used tables as the high-speed (vibration) and controlled amplitude produces a gentle settling action. Through that action the coefficient of friction of the material is reduced. As the particles settle, the entrapped air is more readily removed. Vibrating tables range from small compact units for use in laboratories and dentistry resins, or heavy duty industrial range for coarse granular materials of metal parts. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 22:55:10 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/belt-conveyor.html Tekforce belt conveyor systems, your choice when reliability and value are of prime importance. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 02:38:56 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyors-blog.html#Overland-conveyors---Iron-ore-and-coal-Mining With a recent influx for inquires relating to overland conveyors, high-speed conveyors and process plant systems it seems that iron ore and coal is definitely on the move in Australasia. Recent activity for iron ore mining for hematite (DSO) and magnetite is implying positive growth. Tekforce Engineering in co-operation with FMC Technologies welcome any inquiry relating to iron ore, coal or mining applications for the supply of conveyor components, conveyor idlers, terminal equipment or for Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Management (EPCM) of materials handling solutions for bulk conveying. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 02:53:33 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Grizzly Bar Screens are designed for efficient scalping and controlled feeding of bulk materials for mining applications. Grizzly screens remove large foreign objects from the volume flow and use positive vibration to prevent clogging. They allow fine particles to be separated to prevent clogging or slowing down feed stock prior to use on processing equipment such as crushing and reducing machinery. Bars are available in multiple spacing's available from 25mm to 150mm pitch, dependent on the screening requirement. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 22:58:37 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-engineering.html Belt conveyors for bulk material or industrial applications which necessitate high torque to move large capacities should incorporate torque protection for the drive-train assembly. High capacity belt conveyors which operate without suitable torque protection are at risk of damaging conveyor components and ultimately costly production stoppages. By implementing mechanical or fluid clutches, electrical soft starts, or similar torque protection devices on the conveyor drive shaft or electrical circuit will minimise component failure in the event of a blockage or system overload. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:23:01 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com In collaboration with Engenius Solutions since 2004, Tekforce have been involved with the design and manufacture of palletizing conveyors and materials handling equipment for industrial applications. Engenius Solutions were established in 1997 to meet the growing needs of the automation industry with a specialization in robotics integrations with the 'Kuka' robotics range being a reliable inclusion proven in the field. For a cost-effective robotics or materials handling integration, Tekforce in affiliation with Engenius can provide a labour saving solution tailored for your individual application. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 06:21:06 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/waste-recycling-conveyors.html When designing waste conveyor systems for use in baling operations, recycle plants, transfer stations, and municipal solid waste facilities it is important to incorporate a 'trip wire' into the electrical scope. Trip wire safety lanyards should be implemented in the event the plant operator or maintenance personal enters the conveyor to investigate material blockages and provide security should the conveyor accidently start. Trip wires consist of an emergency stop lanyard or pull cord that runs the length of the conveyor, usually mounted inside and above the conveyor. When activated, this isolates the electrical power supply to the system. Unfortunately, as a cost saving measure, many recycle plants exclude trip wires from the design scope. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 06:02:54 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/waste-recycling-conveyors.html Material and product blockages on waste conveyors can create operator safety issues if the correct safety measures are not implemented. Safe operating procedures and Work Method Statements should be consulted within the production facility to minimise operator exposure with hazardous industrial equipment such as recycling conveyors and heavy equipment. Trip wires, light curtains, electrical isolation switches, emergency stop lanyards, and protective barriers are typical safety features which should be incorporated within the safety design of the system. Additionally, electrical isolators and safety devices should be designed fool-proof to prevent the machine operator from bypassing the electrical controls or tinkering with the high-voltage electrical control circuit, such as the case when conveyor overloads or blockages occur. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:37:20 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bin-vibrators.html Bin vibrator selection and installation for Electric Rotary models is based upon individual application requirements. For vibration distribution, each bin vibrator should be mounted midway, on a length of channel, welded with its legs against the side of the bin or hopper. Many electric rotary bin vibrator models can be mounted with the shaft in any position from horizontal to near vertical, excluding some models where consultation would be necessary. For maximum effectiveness, chutes requiring vibrators should be independently isolated. In addition, the vibrator should be mounted midway on a channel located underneath the length of the chute. For free-flowing bulk material installations, vibrators on hoppers should operate only when the hopper is open to flow. Otherwise, packing of material can result. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 03:07:10 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Electromagnetic vibrating feeders are ideal for metering bulk material flow in feeding, mixing, blending, batching, grinding, flaking, freezing, drying and packaging operations. Vibrating feeders for light industry provide flexibility and reliability, making them well suited for a number of applications and materials. Feeders provide high capacity controlled feed rates with models ranging from near zero up to 10 tonnes per hour for light industry and higher rates for medium and heavy-duty applications. The electromagnetic design is extremely reliable as there are no moving parts to wear out or require lubrication. Downtime and maintenance is extremely rare, even under difficult or abusive environmental conditions. Material flow is easily adjusted with a range of simple control units available to suit specific handling requirements. Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:54:43 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/about-us.html In collaboration with Box Hill Institute of Tafe, Tekforce have entered into the 'Practical Placement Program' for students from the Employment Development for Overseas Professions. "The course is designed to prepare overseas born professionals to successfully navigate the job market and to transfer their experience and skills to the Australian workplace" "The practical placement allows the participants to gain relevant experience in their particular field in industry and offers experience in an Australian workplace" prior to entering the workforce. Tekforce have recently completed the first practical placement with an overseas professional and are delighted with the outcome, with the "transferable skills" beneficial to both parties and provides real opportunities for the candidate to navigate employment opportunities. As an ongoing concern, Tekforce will be undertaking the placement program with Box Hill Institute of Tafe who has been wonderful to associate and pivotal to the success of the program. Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:43:13 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Electric Winches are designed to work in conjunction with belt storage and take-up units. Winch design incorporates load capacities, line dimensions, and maximum line speed under load. Electric Winch features generally include: Active carriage position annunciation, Single motor direct drive design, Fail-safe electric brake with manual release, and Customised control integration with conveyor drive system. Constant tension winch typical power range: 10Kw to 220Kw and pulling force from 450Kg to 45,000Kg Mon, 02 Aug 2010 23:13:04 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Belt winders are used to dispense or receive conveyor belting from the belt conveyor system. Most often used in conjunction with belt storage units for belt conveyors that are lengthened or shortened on a regular basis. The belt winder reels the conveyor belt into a roll or spool so that it can be moved, stored and reused at a later date. Belt winders can be mobile or used in conjunction with splice stations where mechanical splices can be installed or removed from a length of conveyor belting located near the belt storage unit. Belt winding workstations are available in any belt width. These systems are designed and manufactured to integrate with your storage units and belt take-ups. Mon, 02 Aug 2010 01:28:06 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Take-Ups provide critical belt tensioning during startup, loading and conveying to prevent drive pulleys from slipping. Take-ups absorb belt stretch while maintaining proper design tension to the belt as the conveyor is unloaded, partially loaded or fully loaded. Take-Ups are available in many design options although two common types are electric winches or hydraulic cylinder winches. Belt Storage units are an accessory used to dispense the belt if needed to transfer from the conveyor. They are available in configurations using the same frame component design, with hydraulic or electric constant tension winch systems. Belt Winder systems are another dispensing accessory that is commonly used in conjunction with Belt Storage units. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 03:58:18 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Conveyor loading sections are available in a variety of designs and configurations depending on the application and belt profile. In most instances loading sections are supplied with impact idlers as standard. High impact slider beds are available as an option. Loading sections can be installed and removed from the conveyor system without the need to "break the belt". This results in increased up time and eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming belt splicing. Tail Sections: The tail section, located at the opposite end from the discharge end of the belt conveyor is an essential part of the conveyor system. Tail sections are available in many designs although typically equipped with a pulley mounted onto a frame assembly. Most tail sections also have a belt plough mounted to the frame to prevent fugitive material on the return belt from being trapped between the belt and the pulley. Tail sections are generally accompanied by an intermediate loading section. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 02:09:56 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Drive sections for bulk conveyors provide the energy needed to move a loaded conveyor belt through the length of the system. Drive sections consist of pulley skids, power modules and electric controls. Power modules are modular in construction such that one, two, three or four modules can be attached to the ends of the drive pulleys depending on the total kilowatt requirements of the conveyor drive. Adjustable boom drives provide portability for temporary installations. Booster drives are used on long conveyors to add power along the length of the conveyor while keeping the belt tensions within required parameters. Remote conveyor drives keep production moving in permanent installations with features such as the latest alignment-free and parallel shaft reducers combined with drive options, including variable frequency AC, DC drives and fluid couplings. Tripper Drives are available with load cell feedback systems that can be integrated with your mine control information network. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 07:07:40 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Bulk handling conveyors and conveyor idler products brought to Australia by Tekforce Engineering in partnership with FMC Technologies, Inc.,Tupelo, U.S.A. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 02:45:14 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Remote discharge units are an integral part of an effective conveying system, providing a discharge or transfer point at the "head end" of the conveyor belt, to another belt, stockpile or bin. Discharge units can be floor or roof mounted, and are available in a variety of configurations, from simple one-to-one in-line transfers to complex, multi-belt transfer points. They can be custom engineered to match any transfer angle. This type of integrated design helps reduce installation time and cost. Discharge units are equipped with a head pulley to change directions of the conveyor belt as well as to provide a discharge point for the conveyed material on the carry side of the belt. They can also be equipped with a snub pulley to control the elevation of the return belt and to allow for the installation of an integrated belt cleaning system. Discharge sections can also be fitted with impact idlers or impact slider beds (in the case of in-line transfers). Tue, 27 Jul 2010 02:42:04 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Electromagnetic vibrating feeders, dependent on the vendor, are low maintenance and extremely reliable for conveying bulk materials. There are no bearings, rollers, pulleys and chains to lubricate and replace; no drive belts to stretch and slip; no mechanical wearing parts. The low profile design requires minimal headroom. Base mounting and suspension mounting configurations are available. For difficult applications where product drop is a concern, feeders constructed with the drive units mounted above the trough are available. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 01:45:21 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html FMC Technologies Link-Belt trough conveyor idlers and conveyor components are the quality choice for bulk material handling equipment around the world. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:12:13 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Mine-duty Truss Frame Idlers are designed for use in underground bulk conveyor systems. The truss frame design is stronger yet lighter weight than conventional structural angle designs. Installation is made easier and safer due to the lightweight design. Mine-duty idlers are available in CEMA C, D and E ratings and fit belt widths from 900 to 2100mm. Roll diameters of 127, 152 and 178mm are available. The 35 degree trough angle design is available in box frame or truss frame construction. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 01:07:41 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-services.html A belt conveyor which is properly designed, constructed, erected, and maintained theoretically will consistently run true without concern for belt misalignment. However, in actuality, properly aligned belts are normally the exception rather than the rule. Belt training troubleshooting guides can be sourced on the internet to assist you in your efforts to correct belt misalignment problems that invariably lead to premature failure of belting, idlers, and pulleys. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 04:37:02 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-services.html Conveyor services and conveyor-maintenance programs form an integral part of the Tekforce range of products and services. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:15:19 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Training idlers are not intended to compensate for a belt that has been poorly aligned, or to correct for off-center loading conditions. However, both troughed training and return training positive action idlers are recommended for lengthy conveyors to assist in correcting and re-centering occasional wandering belts. They should normally be located 15 meters from terminal pulleys and spaced 15 to 30 meters. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 02:33:37 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Closely spaced impact idlers under loading skirts can be difficult to maneuver during tasks such as installations, idler removal, roller replacement and maintenance procedures. Retractable idlers or segmented impact idlers are specially designed to overcome issues specifically related to closely spaced conveyor idlers. Segmented idler frames can be mechanically lowered approximately 12mm beneath the conveyor belt to allow removal while the adjacent idlers support the belt. Segmented frames feature three idler rolls mounted individually on segments that are free to move along the slider base. The slider base is made of a support frame with a cam shaft mounted internally, extending the length of the base which enables the two outer troughing idlers to retract beyond the extremities of the belt. Sun, 18 Jul 2010 23:39:51 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html The Tekforce supplied range of Australian built Electromagnetic vibratory feeders are not affected by the number of stop / starts per hour. Electromagnetic feeders are able to operate with more stability and with a larger head load than most other feeder designs, achieving an efficient operation. A closed loop feedback control system providing constant and stable trough amplitude (stroke) with varying feed characteristics and conditions give excellent volumetric flow. Wide turndown range, with stable and smooth control from 100 to less than 10 of maximum feed rate, with a near linear response over this range. Instantaneous stop/start of feeder with no ramp up period, providing efficient controllability. As the electromagnetic vibratory feeder does not run-on when stopping, and suffer the problem of resonance over stroke during run down of the exciters, skirts and other chute work can have a minimal static clearance reducing possible feed spillage. Ability to suspension or base mount the vibratory feeder, allowing greater equipment layout flexibility. Low maintenance and little need for regular adjustment and calibration. Few moving parts and no rotating drive components or bearings that require lubrication. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 01:25:20 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Electromagnetic vibrating feeders in most instances are fitted with a single drive unit with a standard size trough for conveying bulk materials. Instances where longer or wider troughs are needed, electromagnetic feeders can have the drive units fitted as a combination of multiple drives. Multiple drive units, positioned one behind the other, result in a long, vibrating conveyor. When an especially wide material layer is desired, multiple drive units can be placed side by side on extra wide feeder troughs. The number of drive units required is determined by the trough width and length. Dual twin drive units, one set behind the other provide both increased feed capacity and the ability to handle exceptionally heavy loads. The material flow rate of all multiple drive unit models can be easily regulated. A special controller permits adjustment of all drive units simultaneously to control the flow rate of the entire feeder. Thu, 08 Jul 2010 23:22:23 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/index.html Tekforce Engineering specialise in the design, manufacture and integration of belt, roller and chain conveyors and conveyor systems. Located in Melbourne, Australia we service a worldwide market. Thu, 08 Jul 2010 02:26:08 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-systems-manufacturers.html Tekforce are quality conveyor systems manufacturers, providing solutions for both materials and bulk handling applications. We are located in Melbourne, Australia. Thu, 08 Jul 2010 02:15:06 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Tekforce offer a comprehensive range of vibrating feeder machinery for both heavy-duty and light industry applications. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 05:55:54 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Electro-magnetic and Electro-mechanical vibrating heavy-duty feeders are normally installed by suspension mounting with four flexible wire rope cables beneath hoppers or other processing equipment such as conveyors and crushers. Additionally to the four primary wire rope suspension cables, secondary safety cables should also be fitted as a safety back up should the primary cable fail. Due to the heavy load and vibrating action on high capacity feeders it is important to use correctly rated wire rope and crimped fittings from reputable vendors. Low value imported fittings cannot always be trusted and have been known to fail. Wire rope suspension requires a sturdy support such as a structural frame surrounding a hopper or directly attached to a correctly designed hopper. Vibratory feeders can also be supplied for base mounting on a solid base such as concrete, or with a combination of base mounting and suspension mounting. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 05:51:37 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Iron Ore processes requiring ISO 3082 Sampling applies both for loading and discharging of a lot under transfer. Sampling can be undertaken by means of belt conveyors, vibratory feeders and other ore handling equipment. A sample is used to determine the chemical composition, moisture content, size distribution and other physical and metallurgical properties of the lot. Manual sampling can be a hazardous procedure especially in processes utilising heavy-equipment and operating continuously at high-speed and risk of entrapment /crushing zones. To overcome such hazards, mechanical devices can be installed where sampling can be safely conducted away from the moving machinery. Typically, mechanical sampler devices skim or scrape off the desired sample from the moving machinery into a canister or storage bin. Sample devices are available in many models and can accommodate a range of processing machinery. Belt-conveyors are generally the most commonly used equipment for mounting mechanical samplers. Design engineers should consider mechanical sampling units /advice during the design phase of the materials handling system and should be integral within the design rather than an afterthought. Sample testing is a specialised field in its own right and advice should be taken directly from these vendors. These can be sourced locally within the Australasian region on the web. Tue, 06 Jul 2010 07:10:27 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Return rubber tread training idlers train the belt and protect the edges from damage caused by misalignment. Return belt rubber disc idlers are used when wet or sticky materials tend to cling to the belt, where corrosion resistance is required or where chemical attraction to iron or steel is involved. Positive action type for belts operating in one direction and Actuating shoe type for reversing belts. Rigid frame v-return idlers provide a means of training the return belt, with the added benefit of additional carrying load capacity. Rigid v-returns can be adjusted using slotted bolt holes in the end brackets of the frame to aid in proper belt training. Mon, 24 May 2010 01:27:15 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Troughed belt picking and feeder conveyor idlers carry the load in a wide, thin layer where picking and sorting are required or where a shallow bed of material is required to minimise degradation. Standard design picking and feeder idlers features rubber cushioned or steel rolls. Variable troughed belt idler models are typically used between the final troughing idler and the head pulley. Variable idlers support the belt during its transition from a concave to a flat contour. The end rolls can be adjusted vertically to match the changing contour of the belt during this critical period of transition. Standard design features steel rolls and are also available with rubber cushion rolls. Thu, 13 May 2010 00:36:50 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html The Tekforce supplied range of Sub-resonant tuned electromagnetic and electromechanical vibrating feeders work consistently under material damping and other varying head load conditions with negligible changes in trough stroke. Vibrating feeders equipped with Sub-resonant tuning maintains stroke consistency and speed stability, thus delivering higher capacities of bulk materials at controlled feed rates. Precise, sub-resonant tuning is a key characteristic of both types of vibrating feeder models. Electromagnetic models are tuned through careful calculation of the number and thickness of the special leaf springs required to accomplish the desired tuning ratio. Electromechanical models are tuned by adjusting the operating speed to obtain the exact tuning ratio. Tue, 11 May 2010 23:40:52 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Low sub-resonant tuning is the key characteristic for the Tekforce supplied range of Australian built electromagnetic and electromechanical vibrating feeders, making them the most stable and consistent bulk material feeders available on the market. Feeder tuning involves adjustment of the natural frequency of the feeder in relationship to its operating frequency. If the operating frequency is greater than the natural frequency, the feeder is super-resonant tuned, making it very unstable under head-load. Conversely, if the natural frequency is greater than the operating frequency, the feeder is sub-resonant tuned, making it more consistent and stable under head-load. Tue, 11 May 2010 07:03:06 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/vibrating-feeder.html Vibrating feeders when utilised as part of a transfer arrangement under storage bins, hoppers or silos, depend on the ideal hopper and flow gate design to maintain maximum material capacity to the plant. Free flowing bulk materials such as grains and cereals generally result in efficient transfer throughout the hopper / feeder arrangement although cohesive materials such as iron ore can introduce blockages, ratholing and flow issues. Excessive head-load on the vibrating feeder can bog down the unit and reduce capacity throughput. Fri, 07 May 2010 02:10:25 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-idlers.html Conveyor-idlers from Tekforce are the cost-effective bulk conveying solution for mining, high-speed, and overland materials handling systems. Trough belt rollers and ball bearing conveyor idlers, manufactured by FMC Technologies - Link-belt(r)are the quality choice for extreme bulk materials handling applications. FMC metric series idlers are well suited for high-speed overland-conveyors and process plants for moving harsh materials such as coal, iron ore, aggregates and minerals processing. Conveyor idlers are available in diameters ranging 89.0mm to 219mm and belt widths 350mm to 3000mm. A comprehensive range of trough belt idlers, impact idlers, flat belt idlers, training idlers, return idlers and catenary idlers are available within the metric range. Proven in the field, the FMC idler range is an economical solution for conveying difficult materials. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 05:11:03 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/conveyor-engineering.html Tekforce capabilities incorporate a team of professional engineers and technical advisers to meet any conveyor engineering services your business requires. Fri, 16 Apr 2010 02:36:47 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/about-us.html Find out more about Tekforce Engineering, Conveyor Specialists, located in Melbourne, Australia. Fri, 16 Apr 2010 02:18:46 GMT http://www.tekforce-conveyors.com/bulk-handling-conveyors.html Hoppers, volumetric bins, silos and bulk storage bins are available in many configurations and capacities for light industry through to mining applications. Hoppers allow the accumulation of bulk materials such as aggregates, coal, grains, chemicals and free flowing products to be stored in readiness for transfer to other processes such as transportation devices, conveyors, feeders, distribution machinery and process equipment. When designing bulk storage bins, material characteristics such as size distribution, shear properties and cohesiveness generally dictate the configuration of hoppers. If the hopper and flow gate is designed incorrectly then material flow velocities will reduce and may result in inconsistent product flow, material blockages, compaction, spoiling and reduction in production capacity. Bin vibrators, vibrating feeders, and vibrating flow gates mounted to the hopper exit can resonate through the hopper and assist the flow of stubborn material. Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:54:02 GMT