Beginners Guide

IDLER SET

The main function of idler sets are to support the conveyor belting, which, is normally the most expensive component of a standard conveyor installation.

Idler Sets

An idler set is a series of between 1 - 5 idler rolls mounted between idler roll supports which are in turn mounted on an support frame called the base.

There are two basic types of conveyor idler sets:

Carry Idler sets: these idler sets support the portion of the conveyor belt on which the material is conveyed.

Return Idler sets: these idler sets support the portion of the conveyor belt which returns to the tail pulley after it goes around the head pulley and discharges the material.

Idler Rolls

The design and manufacture of idler roll assemblies, although not a highly complicated science, still remains a specialised field. Many enterpreneurs have entered this field assuming it to be basic and have failed. The internal components of idler rolls, although all basically similar, vary, based on the applied ingenuity of the various manufacturers.

The outer shells (3) of idler rolls are generally manufactured from 89, 102, 108, 114, 127, 138, 152 and 178 mm tubing.

The outer shells are generally closed off with an end cap of varying design.(1)

The endcap is normally designed to house the anti-friction bearings (2) and bearing dust seals (5).

The anti-friction bearings support the non-rotating idler shaft (4).

The idler shaft has special machined ends to allow its positive location within the base frame idler support brackets.