BMG’s highly efficient belt fastener system – the Super-Screw – which was originally used as a temporary alternative to conventional hot and cold splicing, has proved to be totally reliable as a permanent splice for conveyor belt repairs.

“This high strength splicing system is a flexible rubber splice using self tapping screws that enable Super-Screw to be installed regardless of the configuration of the conveyor belt and irrespective of access and weather conditions,” says Donovan Scott, divisional manager, bulk materials handling, BMG.

“The current trend in the mining industry is to avoid the use of hazardous substances where ever possible. Trichloroethylene, a hazardous solvent used in conventional hot and cold splicing procedures, can now be replaced by using the Super-Screw system as a safe splicing alternative.

“BMG, in conjunction with the SABS, has used various belt classes and widths to test the Super-Screw in different applications over the last three years. Further tension tests are currently being conducted through the CSIR on various splice types and on wider belts (500 mm). We expect to achieve even better results, which will published in the next six months.

“Field tests indicate that the Super-Screw is the quickest method to repair a conveyor belt in any emergency situation, significantly reducing downtime. The mechanical joining technique is easy to complete, without the need for a skilled operator and heavy, costly equipment. This system, with a high tensile strength, has proved to be a suitable alternative to conventional splicing methods. In some cases, the Super-Screw exceeded the tensile rating of hot and cold splice samples of the same class rating.

Read more: The ideal permanent splice for conveyor belt repairs