What a V-Type Return Idler Does
A V-Type Return Idler is a two-roll idler set mounted under the carrying side of a conveyor belt to support the return strand. The two rolls are arranged in a V shape, with the center lower than the outer ends. This geometry helps the belt stay centered as it travels back to the tail pulley, and it also sheds loose material that might otherwise build up on the rolls. In aggregate and mining circuits, this return idler is often chosen where belt training and material carryback are both concerns.
The product is also known as a V-return idler or V-type training return idler. These names refer to the same assembly. It is not a substitute for a drive pulley, tail pulley, or bend pulley; those are conveyor pulleys that transmit power or change belt direction. The V-type return idler is a support component that works with the conveyor bracket and frame.
Construction and Common Configurations
Each V-Type Return Idler set usually consists of two idler rollers joined at a central hinge or bracket. The rolls may be steel tube, nylon, or rubber-covered depending on the duty. Bearing sizes commonly include 6204, 6205, 6305, 6306, 6308, and 6310, but the bearing is selected to match the roll diameter and load, not a single fixed pairing. Roll diameter options often range from Ø63 mm to Ø219 mm, with Ø89, Ø108, Ø127, and Ø159 being common in bulk handling. The V angle is typically 10 to 15 degrees per side, though the exact angle is set by the conveyor designer.
Roll length varies with belt width and frame design. For reference, a V-type return set on a 800 mm belt may use rolls around 315 mm long, while a 1200 mm belt may use rolls near 465 mm. These are examples only; the actual length is determined by the conveyor bracket spacing and the required clearance. The idler roller surface can be plain steel for general service or rubber-covered for grip and noise reduction in dusty plants.
Where It Fits in the Conveyor
The V-Type Return Idler is installed on the return strand, generally spaced between the tail pulley and the drive pulley. In a coal mining conveyor or a quarry conveyor, it helps keep the belt aligned after the material has been discharged. It is particularly useful on long overland conveyors and in plants where the belt tends to wander because of off-center loading or misalignment. It can be used with a fabric core conveyor belt or a steel cord conveyor belt, provided the idler load rating and roll diameter suit the belt tension and speed.
In a cement plant or power plant coal handling system, the V-type return idler also limits the effect of sticky carryback. Because the rolls are angled, fines tend to fall away rather than pack against the roller face. This is a practical advantage when the conveyor handles abrasive or moist bulk material.
Selection and Maintenance Notes
Buyers should confirm the belt width, the return strand load, the shaft diameter required by the conveyor bracket, and the available mounting space. A V-type return idler should not be selected by belt width alone; the roll diameter, bearing size, and shaft end must match the frame. For a heavy-duty mining conveyor belt or an abrasion resistant conveyor belt application, consider a larger roll diameter and sealed bearings to resist dust and water.
During inspection, check for seized rolls, worn rubber covers, and material buildup between the V rolls. A worn V-type return idler can cause belt edge wear and mistracking. Replace damaged rolls as a set where possible to keep the V geometry even. Keep the conveyor bracket bolts tight and verify that the idler frame is square to the belt centerline.
Typical Reference Data
| Parameter | Common range or example |
|---|---|
| Roll diameter | Ø63, Ø76, Ø89, Ø102, Ø108, Ø127, Ø133, Ø159, Ø178, Ø194, Ø219 mm |
| Belt width reference | B400, B500, B650, B800, B1000, B1200, B1400, B1600, B1800, B2000 mm |
| Roll length example for 800 mm belt | approx. 315 mm |
| Roll length example for 1200 mm belt | approx. 465 mm |
| Bearing sizes | 6204, 6205, 6305, 6306, 6308, 6310 |
| Roll surface | steel tube, nylon, rubber-covered |
These values are for general reference and should be confirmed against the conveyor design. For more information on compatible conveyor components, visit our site at conveyed.com for conveyor belt and idler roller guidance.
