How to Choose the Right Conveyor Cover?

A conveyor cover (also called a belt conveyor hood or enclosure) is designed to protect bulk materials and conveyor components from weather, dust, and other environmental hazards. Choosing the right cover depends on several factors related to the operating environment, material type, safety requirements, and maintenance needs. Here's a guide to help you choose effectively:

Conveyor Covers with Inspection Window

1. Understand Your Application & Environment

1.1 Material Type & Characteristics

Dusty, fine materials (e.g., cement, fly ash): Use fully enclosed covers to prevent dust escape.
Wet or corrosive materials (e.g., fertilizers, salts): Require corrosion-resistant covers made of plastic, fiberglass, or stainless steel.
Hot materials: Opt for heat-resistant metal covers with proper ventilation.

1.2 Operating Environment

Outdoor exposure: Need UV-resistant and waterproof covers to withstand sun, rain, and snow.
Coastal or chemical areas: Use anti-corrosive materials like FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) or powder-coated galvanized steel.
Explosive or hazardous zones: Select spark-resistant, anti-static and fire-retardant cover materials.

2. Choose the Cover Material

Material	Advantages	Ideal For
Galvanized Steel	Durable, cost-effective	General outdoor use, mining, aggregates
Powder-Coated Steel	Adds corrosion and chemical resistance	Cement, fertilizer, chemical plants
Stainless Steel	Corrosion & heat resistant	Harsh, corrosive, or food-grade environments
Aluminum	Lightweight, rustproof	Light-duty outdoor applications
FRP / Plastic (Polycarbonate, PVC)	Transparent options, non-corrosive, lightweight	Enclosed, coastal, or food-related operations

3. Consider the Cover Type & Configuration

MMSTACKER can offer conveyor covers for radial stacker conveyor and mobile ship loader in various dimensions.

3.1 Cover Styles

Full Enclosure: Complete 180° or 360° coverage for maximum protection.
Partial (90° or 120°) Covers: Easier access, ideal where complete sealing isn't needed.
Retractable or Hinged Covers: Allow easy inspection and maintenance.
Modular Covers: Enable easy replacement of damaged sections and expansion of system.

3.2 Cover Features to Consider

Inspection Windows or Transparent Panels: Allow visual inspection without opening the cover.
Quick-Access Hinges or Latches: For fast maintenance access.
Dust Collection Ports: For connecting dust suppression or extraction systems.

Belt Conveyor Covers for Transportation

4. Match Cover Dimensions to Conveyor Size

Ensure the cover fits your belt width, idler arrangement, and frame height.

Most suppliers (like SKE Industries) offer custom sizing to match:

Belt width (e.g., 500 mm to 2000+ mm)
Cover radius (depending on idler trough angle)
Length of each cover segment

5. Follow Safety & Compliance Requirements

Ensure covers meet local safety standards (e.g., OSHA, MSHA) for guarding moving parts.
In food or pharmaceutical applications, covers should meet hygienic and anti-contamination regulations.
In hazardous areas, ensure covers comply with ATEX or NEC explosion protection directives.

6. Additional Considerations

Easy Maintenance: Choose hinged or liftable covers if frequent maintenance is required.
Aesthetic Requirements: Some industries prefer powder-coated or color-customized covers.
Budget Constraints: Balance between material durability and project budget—galvanized steel is often the most cost-effective.

Belt Conveyor Covers for Overland Conveyors

7. Summary: Conveyor Cover Selection Checklist

Factor	Recommendation
Material Type	Enclosed covers for dusty or light materials
Environment	UV-, rust-, or chemical-resistant materials for outdoor/harsh use
Cover Material	Steel (galvanized, powder-coated), stainless steel, FRP, or plastic
Accessibility	Hinged or modular for inspection/maintenance
Safety Standards	Comply with OSHA/MSHA/ATEX as required

Would you like help selecting a conveyor cover for a specific belt width, plant type, or material? I can assist with product specs or match options from suppliers like MMSTACKER.