Experimental Evaluation of Impact Loading of RFID Tags Embedded in a Pipe Conveyor Belt and Design of an Optimal Antenna Configuration
Source abstract
Abstract
Monitoring the technical condition of conveyor belts is essential for the reliable and safe operation of pipe belt conveyors. Integrating passive UHF RFID tags directly into the belt structure enables continuous monitoring of belt circulation, elongation, and splice condition without interrupting operation. This study aimed to verify the technical feasibility of such an approach, optimize the RFID system architecture, and experimentally evaluate the impact resistance of tags vulcanized into a rubber–textile conveyor belt. A multicriteria decision-making approach (AHP and TOPSIS) was used to select a suitable UHF antenna and mounting system for the experimental pipe conveyor TMEL, resulting in the choice of a circularly polarized Alien ALR-8698 patch antenna and a fully adjustable portal-type holder. Impact tests on an S 250/2 RA belt with integrated RFID tags showed that all tags remained functional up to complete mechanical failure of the specimens, even under direct impact, with maximum impact forces of 6–12 kN depending on specimen width. The integration of RFID tags did not introduce a critical weakening of the load-bearing belt structure, confirming that RFID is a robust and suitable complement for intelligent condition monitoring of pipe conveyors.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Belt Conveyor Systems Engineering · RFID technology advancements · Vibration and Dynamic Analysis
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Faculty of Mining, Ecology, Process Control and Geotechnology, Technical University of Kosice, Park Komenskeho 14, 042 00 Kosice, Slovakia
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Kosice, Letna 9, 042 00 Kosice, Slovakia
Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics, Technical University of Kosice, Letna 9, 042 00 Kosice, Slovakia
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