Conveyor belt longitudinal rip: causes and checks
A trapped object can turn a small puncture into a full-length tear. Stop the conveyor immediately when a rip is suspected.
Safety first: observe a running conveyor only from designated guarded positions. Isolate, lock out and verify zero energy, and secure take-up movement, before any hands-on check or correction.
Symptom
Look for a slit running along the travel direction, sudden spillage or a rip-detector alarm. Do not approach the moving belt.
Evidence
After isolation, inspect the loading zone, chute obstruction, trapped metal, damaged idlers and splice area. Preserve the object and photographs for the failure record.
Causes
Sharp tramp metal, a blocked chute, failed rotating parts or a trapped object can cut the cover and carcass.
Verification
Trace the tear to its starting point and identify the contact mechanism before repairing. Have a competent belt specialist assess residual carcass strength.
Action
Keep the conveyor isolated until the obstruction is removed and an approved repair or replacement is completed. Inspect magnets, metal detection and rip protection under a planned proof-test procedure.
Related Catenary calculators
Related standards on MechAtlas (status and edition)
Source note: Belt Conveyor.pdf, p. 16. Field guidance supports your judgment. Site procedures, manufacturer instructions and current standards govern final decisions.