Indentation rolling resistance based on a three-parameter Kelvin solid model

The indentation rolling resistance of a belt conveyor with stable operation accounts for more than 60% of the total resistance. Thus, the effective reduction of indentation rolling resistance and its energy consumption have attracted considerable attention of engineers. Indentation rolling resistance is due to the viscoelasticity of conveyor belt. A three-parameter Kelvin solid model is used to characterize the viscoelasticity of materials. The parameters of the Kelvin solid model include two elastic moduli E 0 and E 1 and one viscous coefficient η 1 , and their fitting functions are obtained by completing a dynamic tensile test. A mathematical model of indentation rolling resistance is derived, on the basis of theoretical analysis, which is directly expressed by belt speed, idler radius, and cover layer thickness under the conveyor belt, and is indirectly expressed by normal load and temperature. The influence of five factors on indentation rolling resistance and the influence of combined conditions of any two factors on indentation rolling resistance are separately analyzed on the basis of the mathematical model. The theory in this study is accurate based on the consistency between the theoretical calculation and experimental results. In practical engineering, the operating conditions of belt conveyors are any combination of all factors. Various factors should be considered to reduce indentation rolling resistance.