Magnesium oxide (MgO) offers significant potential and value in conveyor belt applications. Proper use and management can fully leverage its performance advantages, providing safer and more reliable conveyor belt products for industrial production.
I. Enhanced Heat Resistance
MgO possesses high thermal stability and corrosion resistance. Adding MgO to heat-resistant conveyor belt cover rubber significantly improves its heat resistance. This is because MgO reduces the coefficient of thermal expansion and lowers thermal stress, thus enhancing the conveyor belt’s stability and service life in high-temperature environments.
II. Improved Flame Retardancy
MgO is commonly used as a flame retardant additive in conveyor belt products such as PVC solid-woven belts. At high temperatures, MgO decomposes, producing water and MgO, a process that absorbs significant heat, thus achieving a flame-retardant effect. This helps prevent fires and improves the safety of conveyor belts.
III. Enhanced Corrosion Resistance
MgO also exhibits good corrosion resistance, capable of withstanding erosion from acidic and alkaline corrosive media. Adding MgO to conveyor belts improves their corrosion resistance and extends their service life. This is particularly important for conveyor belts operating in corrosive environments.
IV. Impact on Other Conveyor Belt Properties
While the addition of MgO enhances the heat resistance, flame retardancy, and corrosion resistance of conveyor belts, it can also affect certain properties. For example, MgO addition may reduce the hardness and strength of the conveyor belt, as well as its abrasion resistance. Furthermore, MgO addition can decrease the electrical conductivity of the conveyor belt, impacting its electrical performance. Therefore, care must be taken to control the amount and uniform distribution of MgO to balance various performance characteristics.
V. Application Examples
Examples of MgO applications in conveyor belts include high-temperature and corrosion-resistant belts, belts for mineral products, high-tensile steel cord conveyor belts, automotive engine V-belts, and automotive timing belts. These conveyor belts play crucial roles in industrial production, and the addition of MgO provides them with better performance and longer service life.