Integral analysis of conveyor pulley using finite element method

Pulleys are functionally critical items in belt conveyors. Earlier researchers have mostly analyzed the pulley in parts rather than as an integral structure. Since the stresses and deflections of its various parts are inter-related, an integral analysis is mandatory for reliable pulley design. A finite element software has been developed for the analysis of pulleys utilizing a 3-noded thick conical shell element and a triangular ring element. This work considers all the well-known assuctmptions on load variations along the pulley face-width and around its periphery. A semianalytical approach using Fourier analysis has been adopted. To validate the software, comparison has been carried out with published experimental and theoretical investigations. A few parametric studies are also reported to elucidate the mutual inter-dependence of stresses in the pulley components. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.