Engineering
Transport system for Arcelor Mittal
This transport system ensures that heavy conveyor belts don’t have to be unwound manually. Read how we go from problem to solution in 7 steps!
1. Defining the problem
The reason for the problem was the way eavy conveyor belts were manually unwound using a crane. This process was not only time-consuming but also extremely unsafe. The crane had to be operated with precision and the manual handling increased the risk of errors or accidents. Combined with the massive weight of the belts, the current approach was unsustainable. There was an urgent need for a mechanical system that could unwind the belts safely, in a controlled and efficient manner.
2. Determining the parameters: thorough site visit and visual documentation
To develop a suitable concept, the project began with a comprehensive site visit at Arcelor Mittal. During this visit, we carefully mapped existing installations and structures. We also collected extensive photo and video material. This visual documentation provided Caden’s team with a clear understanding of the spatial constraints, the exact dimensions of the conveyor belts and the safety risks associated with the current process.
This information was essential for defining the parameters of the new design, such as the required load capacity, the dimensions of the new structure and integration possibilities within the existing infrastructure.
3. Digitizing existing drawings and installation
One of the first steps in the design process was converting the old installation drawings into a digital 3D model. This allowed the existing structures to be virtually visualized and analyzed. Digitizing the installation enabled the team to understand the limitations and possibilities of the current infrastructure and served as an important foundation for designing the new solution.
The 3D model also allowed simulations to be carried out to test how the new product solution would interact with the existing installations.
5. Designing a concept: safe and modular
After the problem analysis, site visit and digitization of the installations, it was time to develop a concept that was both safe and efficient. The final concept consisted of a modular system in which fixed frames were placed on each conveyor belt. These frames served as the basis for unwinding the belts, eliminating all manual input.
The cassettes in which the belts were placed were equipped with lifting eyes, allowing the system to be easily moved and positioned using a crane or forklift. Thanks to the modular design, the same system could be used at multiple locations with minimal adjustments required for specific installations.
6. Strength calculations and safety requirements
Because the structure supporting the conveyor belts became significantly heavier with the addition of the new product solution, it was crucial to perform detailed strength calculations. These calculations ensured that the existing infrastructure could bear the new loads without compromising safety.
During this phase, special attention was given to the forces acting on the supporting structures of the conveyor belt installations. The existing structures were thoroughly analyzed. Additional reinforcements were added where necessary to prevent the new installation from becoming overloaded. This ensured that the safety of the entire system was maintained
7. Delivery of a complete product package
The project was completed with the delivery of a complete solution for Arcelor Mittal. In addition to the installation of the new unwinding system, 3DCadworks group also provided full documentation, including user manuals and safety regulations. These documents contained detailed instructions on how to safely use and maintain the system, as well as recommendations for inspections and maintenance intervals.
Thanks to this comprehensive approach, Arcelor Mittal was able to implement the new system immediately, significantly improving both safety and efficiency!
Conclusion
The design and implementation of a safe unrolling system for conveyor belts at Arcelor Mittal clearly demonstrated the value of a thorough problem analysis and a modular approach. Thanks to close collaboration with the client and the integration of modern technologies such as 3D modeling. It was possible to develop a product solution that not only perfectly involved the client’s specific needs but could also be applied across different installations.
By utilizing a modular solution, strength calculations and a flexible setup, Caden delivered a system that meets the strictest safety standards while remaining future-proof. The comprehensive approach, from problem to delivery shows that the collaboration between Caden and Arcelor Mittal resulted in a project that is both innovative and practical.