Control of Selected Operational Parameters of the Scraper Conveyor to Improve Its Working Conditions

The concept of controlling operational parameters of the conveyor, utilising the ability to adjust extension of telescopic trough of the conveyor and the ability to adjust the value of supply voltage frequency for drive motors is described. The control algorithm was designed to prevent unfavourable dynamical phenomena and dangerous loosening of the chain during the conveyor’s operation. On the basis of the rules describing developed algorithm, value of supply voltage frequency for the drive motor, located both at the return end and at the discharge end is adjusted. Another adjusted parameter is the extension of telescopic trough on the return drive. By adjusting parameters listed here, unfavourable loosening or excessive tension of the scraper chain are eliminated. Moreover, adjusting the value of the supply voltage frequency for drive motors may provide proper cooperation between them, preventing situations when one of the motors, the through scraper chain, loads the other one. In addition, changing frequency of voltage enables adjusting the motor’s rotary speed, and at the same time controlling the speed of the chain with the scrapers. Applying the control algorithm will allow to improve conveyor’s operation. It will also decrease its failure frequency and its wear and tear, by reducing frictional wear.