With increasing requirements, many conveyor systems utilize dual drive arrangements to increase output.
Dual drives can provide an economical solution by utilizing smaller, more efficient, system designs. However,
multiple drive conveyors must proportion the load between drives and load sharing without some type of
control is difficult to achieve. This paper presents a case study on a failure analysis of a coal mine dual drive
conveyor system that experienced gear reducer failures between 2 to 18months. Physical and metallurgical
inspection of failed gearing did not indicate material or workmanship defects, but indicated overload. In order
to determine the cause of the failures, strain gage load testing was performed. The testing of the conveyor
drives revealed load sharing problems which that will be reviewed.