Minimizing the Traction Factor of a Multi-Motor Belt Conveyor

The work is devoted to the problem of starting a multi-motor belt conveyor, which is relevant for coal-mines. The conveyor in mines often works in arduous conditions. The mathematical model of the conveyor taking into account the traction factor is considered. The conveyor is divided into nine concentrated masses. The electric drive consists of an induction motor and a vector-controlled frequency converter. Two ways of starting a twin-motor conveyor using a frequency converter were investigated: starting in the speed synchronization mode and starting in the traction factor minimization mode. For the synthesis of the control system, the transfer functions of the conveyor are simplified to the second order. The PID controller is set to the modular optimum. As a result of the study, it was found that the traction factor control system reduces fluctuations of the conveyor belt and of the traction factor and delays the conveyor acceleration to the rated speed. Thus, the traction factor control system ensures the start of the conveyor without the belt slipping on the drive drum.