Abstract
The article presents the results of an analytical and experimental study of the tribological characteristics of a rope-plate conveyor intended for transporting large-sized and abrasive materials. The frictional interaction between traction ropes and the supporting-gripping elements of the load-carrying belt using shock-absorbing supporting idlers and pressure roller supports, which ensure redistribution of contact pressure and stabilization of the adhesion regime, is considered. The effective coefficient of friction under operating conditions, the adhesion coefficient, contact pressure, and wear rate were analyzed in relation to the wrap angle, wedge angle, linear load, and stiffness of the elastic elements of the system. It was established that the coefficient of adhesion increases with an increase in the wrap angle and decreases with an increase in the wedge angle, while optimization of the geometry of the contact elements contributes to reducing slippage of the traction ropes. It was shown that the introduction of shock-absorbing elements reduces contact pressure by 15–25% and decreases the wear rate by 18–22% compared to the conventional design. The analytical relationships were experimentally confirmed, with the discrepancy between the results amounting to 7–11%. The coefficient of friction in the contact zone varies within the range of 0.28–0.98 depending on the operating conditions. The proposed design provides increased traction capacity, reduced intensity of tribological wear, and improved reliability of the conveyor system during transportation of abrasive materials under severe operating conditions.