Compact Flexco® Conveyor-belt Skiver Speeds, Simplifies Splice Countersinking
10 April 2002
The compact Flexco® FSK™ Belt Skiver enables fast and easy removal of conveyor-belt cover material when countersinking mechanical splices. Employing an integral ratchet-driven roller design, the hand-operated tool carves a flat-bottomed trough as deep as 3 /8 -inch (10 mm) in a single pass. Multiple-pass capability allows deeper skiving in rubber and synthetic belts up to 11 /4 inches (32 mm) thick. A range of user-selected widths accommodate varying belt-fastener sizes.
Unlike conventional skivers, the self-contained unit rides the belt end, does not require a separate guide track and winch, and eliminates the need to nail down the belt. The lightweight FSK Belt Skiver also eliminates the danger and crude results of hand-knife skiving, and is faster and cleaner than using a router. The skived belt cover comes off in one continuous strip, eliminating airborne debris and dust that can result from using powered grinders. No electrical power is needed, and the entire skiving procedure takes only a few minutes.
Operation begins with simple manual adjustments for desired skive depth and width. With the skiver properly positioned and secured on the belt end, users ratchet the tool across the width of the belt with one hand while guiding the tool with the other. Two pairs of rollers -- each featuring a serrated upper and smooth lower roller -- clamp the belt as the serrated rollers grip the top cover and drive the skiver, pulling a special steel blade through the belting.
Because the tool gauges cutting depth from the bottom of the belt, it produces a uniform skive even on molded and worn belting, without damaging load-bearing carcass fibers. Easy hand-screw adjustment of roller tension allows optimum operation, preventing water and dirt from affecting drive effectiveness. The resulting flat-bottom trough features a rounded inside corner to prevent the belt cover from splitting.
The portable Flexco skiver measures just 112 inches long, 82 inches wide and 6 inches tall (290 mm X 210 mm X 150 mm), and weighs less than 20 pounds (9 kg). The self-contained tool includes attached ratchet and is easily maintained by oil or silicone lubrication. Replacement blades are available separately.
Countersinking brings mechanical fastener plates closer to the belt carcass for a stronger, more durable grip. Lowering plates below the belt surface also prevents fasteners from interfering with scrapers, diverters and skirtboards, and reduces abrasive wear for longer splice life.
