Flexco officials say the rollers are up to 50% lighter than steel versions – saving miners’ backs and requiring less energy to operate.

The latest line from the Illinois conveyor infrastructure servicer and manufacturer bears the company’s signature purple hue, featuring a composite material construction that is corrosion and abrasion resistant.

“The rollers provide the same CEMA [Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association] ratings as steel rollers with no loss of functional performance, while providing a longer service life and superior wear when compared to steel,” the company said.

The abrasion and friction resistance of the roller’s surface also extends inward, as Flexco designed and field-tested a seal offering protection on the inside of the roller as well.

The centrifugal seal prevents trapped material from damaging the end disc, an issue that often leads to premature roller failure.

The rollers’ light weight makes for easy lifting, carrying and placement by just one worker. This reduces manpower needs and increases productivity because installers can move on to other tasks.

Once in place, less energy and torque is needed to start rotation because of the line’s low breakaway mass. That and a low running friction decreases total power consumption.

The CoreTech rollers also lower the noise levels often associated with steel.

Worker safety and health can benefit from this feature, and the mine can be saved from the fines associated with noise pollution.