AA_WINBELT is WINBELT'S essential program for belt conveyor design and estimating. Tension analysis under running, acceleration, deceleration and stopped belt conditions makes possible an automatic identification of mechanical defects in both new and existing conveyors. The module promotes cost savings by recommending extended idler space where permitted while reducing sag/spillage clean up costs/accidents/deaths/litigation created by low tension/idler space anomalies. Combined with integral cost data base the OPTIMIZATION ACTION PLAN effortlessly guides users to QUALITY AT LEAST COST.

The WINBELT program architecture works to defeat inexperienced or poor engineering practice. Each iteration of the computation is complete unto itself, bypassing the temptation to enter erroneous data from an earlier iteration, another project, external pulley/shaft design or pre-conceived notions. This thoroughness has been shown to reduce the costs of failure, high maintenance, business interruption etc. It only takes a few milliseconds more to do it right.

APPLICATION

AA_WINBELT program is for belt conveyor design and estimating. It will help:

• Identify and remove defects in new or existing conveyors

• Reduce failures and litigation exposure. 

• Plan new operations. 

Use for feasibility and advanced qualification studies.
Vendors expedite response to requests for proposal. 
Data is useful from within AC_HAULPLAN for haulage economic studies.

The opening menu bar of AA_WINBELT includes these titles:

 The program is written in Visual Basic 6 and has a look common to Word, Excel, AutoCAD and many other programs, making users comfortable with WINBELT from day one. It's as simple as:

Run time computation options after clicking APPLY are optionally automatic or based on user-input. While user input mode selects convenient defaults based on computation it leaves the user in full command on how to "build the belt conveyor" or how to model an existing conveyor using components actually used or those available. (Belt strength, power etc)

OPTIMIZATION ACTION PLAN 
(Title 1, Page 1)

1. The figure above displays summary results of comprehensive data scan of output data tuned to discover anomalies and defects.

2. Net Price of Components. (TITLE 7.6 ABBREVIATED)

3. CAUTION: BELT TENSION AT TAKEUP SHOULD EXCEED =

• If the requirements for BELT TENSION AT TAKEUP are not met, the user will normally re-run file with greater tension at the takeup. This cures drive traction and sag/spillage problems.

• The user should then review the CAUTIONS and SUGGESTions and make sure the choice of idler series and space best meet quality requirements.

• Concurrently with each optimization step the user by making mental note of the PRICE OF COMPONENTS would normally move the process towards least cost.

• Review output data in depth. Make sure the data represents what you have in mind. Use the referenced CEMA figure number as a guide.

Below is remaining output data. Copied from hardcopy output of Problem 4, CEMA 5th Manual. Superimposed arrows, with text explanations, draw attention to data key to effective use of program.