Dielectric relaxation studies of conveyor belt compounds to determine indentation rolling resistance

The accuracy of analytical models used to predict the indentation rolling resistance of belt conveying systems depends on the method of testing the material properties. Due to the limitations and inconsistency of obtaining material properties using mechanical methods, it is becoming more common for viscoelastic behaviour to be represented by non-mechanical models, such as dielectric models. Dielectric models can lead to the same mathematical predictions as mechanical models; however, the experimental work is highly accurate and can be performed over a much greater frequency range than mechanical testing. This paper introduces a dielectric energy loss model which uses dielectric methods to measure the viscoelastic material properties of the bottom cover of conveyor belt. The model is compared to actual indentation rolling resistance data obtained from tests performed at the University of Newcastle on a purpose built test facility.