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PROCEDURE
FOR CLEANING A RUBBER BELT
A
general cleaning of any Rubber Belt (RB) is advised periodically for the
following reasons:
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To remove any chemical build-up (e.g., finish, resins, sizing,
color, etc.) that, if left on the surface, would degrade the rubber
and lower its durometer, necessitating shorter grinding intervals.
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To aid the RB in its ability to recoil and smoothly slip
against the steam cylinder. A build-up of material on the RB face
and/or steam cylinder may prevent this from occurring.
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To relieve surface tension on the belt's face, particularly
after grinding. Otherwise, the cooling water may not adhere as well
to the face of the belt. This, in turn, may affect the belt's ability
to successfully process certain fabrics.
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To aid general
housecleaning and inspection procedures. Through vigilant
care the RB will last longer. Use this time to thoroughly inspect
the RB for any tell tale signs of trouble, e.g., cracking, uneven
or low durometer readings, tacky surface, resin build-up on the selvages,
etc., and resolve any problems found while still young and, hopefully,
insignificant.
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As a safety
precaution. Cleanliness promotes safety.
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(Note:
The cleaning frequency will vary depending upon many variables. The spectrum
is daily to quarterly, sometimes less. Our advice is to wash more often
than not enough. Experience is the best guide).
PROCEDURE
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Substantially
cool the steam cylinder from its operating temperature or start with
a completely cold cylinder. (Note: This is to prevent potential damage
from occurring to both the RB and steam cylinder).
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The compression
roll should be set to "0" (no compression) and the
water removal rolls open. (Note: It may become necessary
to apply a small amount of compression to prevent the RB from slipping
against the steam cylinder, but it should remain minimal).
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Turn on both
the inside and outside water pipes. Turn the RB approximately
(5-10) meters per minute while both surfaces become wet.
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Continue
rotating the RB, but turn the water flow down to a minimum, both
inside and out. This is done so the soap, applied next, is not prematurely
removed.
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Sprinkle
some non-chlorinated soap, e.g., Borax, (Rubber Belt Maintenance
Products) on the inside and outside surface until uniformly covered.
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Turn off
all water, allowing the RB to continue turning at (5-10) meters
per minute.
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As the RB
turns, the soap/water mixture will begin to foam.
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During this
period, remove any stubborn chemical build-ups from the steam cylinder
using a copper sponge or scraper. Copper should be used so as
not to damage the steam cylinder.
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Depending on
the severity of the chemical build-up, it is usually sufficient to
turn on the water sprays after (10-15) minutes. The water will
then flush the loose chemicals, soap, etc., from the RB and steam
cylinder surfaces. In extreme cases, it may be necessary to repeat
this procedure and/or use a medium-stiff bristle brush to successfully
clean either surface.
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Assuming a correct durometer and the removal of any blemishes, the RB
should now be ready for production.
Should
you have any questions concerning this process, the products used in this
process (Rubber Belt Maintenance Products), or have Difficulty in Cleaning
the belt, please contact us via support@ussupplyinc.com
or Fax 704-393-5628 or Tel 704-399-4276.
Copyright
© 1997,1999 United States Supply Co., Inc. All Rights Reserved
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