The present existing methods for establishing wear influences and their link back to conveyor belt technology are described. An extensive statistical investigation is suggested which would allow a computerised statistical listing of the lives of as many conveyor belts as possible. By processing these data, it should be possible to create formulas and tables of factors which would allow calculation of the parameters of investment and availability mentioned above. Some problems regarding maintenance are mentioned which may well be solved by the suggested method. Finally the influence of human behaviour on isolating and preventing causes of wear and damage to conveyor belt systems is discussed. An internationally acknowledged method (QCC) is proposed which may well be adapted to conveyor belt systems in mines.
■
