Remaining Cover Thickness

The primary purpose of the device is to identify points of thinnest cover along the endless belt length. These points should then become the locations for future static lateral cover thickness measurements.

However, regular RCT scanning will provide the information necessary to predict the end-of-life in a belt cover, when trended with other appropriate duty information, such as time and tonnage. This feature may render regular multi-location lateral cover thickness measurements unnecessary.

The device is permanently mounted on the conveyor structure. When not actually performing a scan, the Sensor Head is parked at a conservative distance from the belt surface.

Scanning can be performed ‘on demand’ or at operator-set intervals. During a scan the Sensor Head is “Deployed” and then sits ~30.0mm above the tops of the steel cords. Following a scan, the Sensor Head is automatically “Parked” as described above.

With a Lateral Position Indicator (LPI) fitted, the RCT can track the belt's lateral movement, allowing deployment when the belt is correctly positioned on the structure. This ensures repeatability in the data.

The Sensor Head contains the probes necessary to make the cover thickness measurements.

The Sensor Head measures a strip of belting ~100mm wide across the belt. A decision needs to be made as to which 100mm strip of belt width is to be measured, the ‘preferred lateral position’. This decision is based on historical lateral cover profile measurements.

Normally, site interest will be in the area of maximum wear across the belt width, i.e. thinnest cover.

The Main Electrical Enclosure or MEE contains the processing electronics and data storage. It also contains the Communication Module, which is used to access the device for data download.

Technical support is via the Internet over Site's LAN (VPN or limited network access) or via a dedicated Mobile Broadband modem. This allows the device to be accessed remotely.

An optional 4-20mA output, proportional to cover thickness, is also available in real-time.

Installation is usually carried out by site personnel under the supervision of a Beltscan product specialist.

The Sensor Head is typically located above a major pulley and is positioned laterally over the thinnest strip of belting.

Conveyor specific mounting hardware needs to be provided by site

An IP Surveillance camera is provided with each system to confirm the belt is clean before deployment.

The RCT Alpha equipment requires very little maintenance other than general housekeeping by ensuring the system is kept relatively free from product build-up etc.

Visual inspection should be carried out on a regular basis to confirm all mounts are secure and that the actuator operates freely.

A regular light hose down is recommended.

The RCT Alpha is a software-based device.
All device configuration and operation is performed under Belt Guard Boss – Client software, which is supplied with the device.

Belt Guard Boss is accessible via a PC on the same network as the RCT Alpha or via a range of platforms using a Citrix based solution. Access to the Internet is needed as well as sufficient rights to install the Citrix Receiver App on the relevant platform.

Analysis and report generation can be done in-house, or outsourced to Beltscan for a monthly fee by arrangement.

Optional extras include;

• 4-20mA Output proportional to cover thickness
• Protective weather shields for enclosures
• Climate Control for extreme environments
• Mobile Broadband modem for remote support.

Beltscan has formed a strategic alliance with a major leasing firm so we can offer clients multiple funding options.

Flexible fully-maintained renting plans are available on most of the Belt Guard products.