Stieber RDBK Backstops for Inclined Coal Mine Conveyors

A major gearbox OEM needed a compact, load-sharing, releasable backstop solution for use on a new incline conveyor system at a coal mine in Pennsylvania. Unlike other backstop designs that offer limited reverse rotation after being engaged, the new solution needed to allow for a controlled release under load and be able to rotate backwards for maintenance and clearing work.

To meet the application requirements, Stieber Clutch provided newly developed RDBK high-speed backstops. The RDBK features an internal torque limiter which is specially-designed for use on the high-speed or intermediate shaft of the driving unit in multi-drive systems, such as on large inclined conveyors, where two or more backstops share the reverse load.

RDBK units also feature a releasable function which helps reduce downtime once the backstop has been engaged in the event of a blockage, belt jam or overload. Through the use of an internal hydraulic system, the RDBK is capable of performing as many reverse rotations as needed to completely unload a conveyor prior to maintenance work being performed.

With a maximum torque capacity of 180,000 Nm, a unique, compact design gives the RDBK up to 3.5 times more torque capacity than backstops of similar design; with up to 15 times more energy dissipation. The friction linings work in an oil bath to make sure that the unit remains functional after long periods of inaction.