Pull, Don't Push with Belt Conveyor End Drives to Avoid Buckling Issues

Using an end drive to push loads causes many maintenance, buckling and product flow issues

Many serious belt tracking and general conveyor issues result from trying to push a load rather than pull it. If a conveyor is supplied with an end drive, it is recommended that it be used in a one-direction application to pull its load, never to push it.

Look what happens to an end drive in a reversing situation:

Correct flow with an end drive

The recommended direction of travel with an end drive causes the drive pulley to pull the belt. The drive and belt were designed to work together in concert to pull a load, not push it. In this scenario the belting will rarely suffer buckling issues or require maintenance.

Incorrect flow with an end drive

When a drive pulley pushes the belt, belt buckling issues are more likely to occur. This can cause replacement and maintenance issues. The belt and drive were not designed to push, so they are under more stress.

Using a center drive

When you need a reversing application, a center drive is recommended. The drive pulley is located at the center of the conveyor and pulls the belt equally at both ends. In this configuration, your belt will not buckle.

Correctly specifying drives can reduce maintenance and increase conveyor performance. Contact us with questions about drive locations and specifications.