Damage analysis and lifetime prediction of round-link chain of mine-used scraper conveyor

A three-dimensional model of round-link chain of scraper conveyor was established by 3D software CATIA, contact-impact process of round-link chain was simulated and analyzed by finite element analysis software ANSYS. The analysis results show that stress is concentrated on the contact area between the round-link chains and joint between straight arm and curved arm when the round-link chain is in instant startup state. The joint between the straight arm and curved arm is the weakest area of the round-link chains, and it is easy to break, so stiffness was should be strengthened in design.The contact area between the round-link chains is rubbed continuously during transmission process, and the round-link chains are broken by repeated alternating load. Lifetime of the round-link chain was predicted by theory of fatigue damage accumulation, and draw conclusion: the minimum lifetime of the round-link chain is 49 073 cycles, position of the minimum lifetime is the joint between the straight arm and curved arm. The analysis results can provide basis for optimization design of the round-link chain.