Structural Optimization and Weight Reduction of a Belt Conveyor Supporting Frame Using Analytical and Finite Element Methods

Abstract

This paper deals with the structural design of a belt conveyor equipped with a handling mechanism. The research was carried out within the framework of the KEGA 004TU Z-4/2024 and VEGA1/0302/26 projects and is focused on the design and analysis of the supporting structure in terms of its strength and operational reliability. Particular attention is paid to the methodological procedure for determining the distribution of individual loads arising at critical points of the structure during the operation of the conveyor and the handling mechanism. The paper also identifies the decisive loading conditions and their influence on the dimensioning of the supporting elements of the device. The obtained results contribute to the optimization of the structural design and to increasing the operational safety of the proposed system. The structure was found to be significantly overdesigned with a safety factor of 41.8. A subsequent optimization reduced the weight, while maintaining a safe stress level.