Problems associated with operation of belt conveyor system in Polish copper ore mines

The paper presents the system of transport used in Polish copper ore mines belonging to Copper mining-metallurgic complex KGHM “Polska Miedź” S.A., in which belt conveyor transport dominates. The belt conveyors used in this system are described and the main problems associated with belt conveyor transport, which have a bearing on its cost, are indicated. Conveyor belts and their splicing feature most prominently among them. Tests of the durability of belts and investigations of changes in their parameters caused by the action of mine water are analysed. An analysis of the durability of belt splices used in the copper ore mines and strength tests carried out on them are presented. Factors which contribute to the lowering of the strength of the splices have been determined.