The bend pulley, also known as a deflection pulley, is an essential component in belt Conveyor Systems, primarily used to change the direction of the Conveyor Belt and optimize belt routing. While it does not usually provide the main driving force, the bend pulley plays a critical role in power transmission efficiency, belt tension distribution, and overall conveyor stability.
By redirecting the belt path, bend pulleys help reduce the footprint of conveyor systems, improve belt wrap angles around drive pulleys, and maintain smooth belt movement. Due to its strategic position within the conveyor structure, the bend pulley must offer high mechanical strength, reliable bearing support, and long service life under continuous operation.
The primary function of a bend pulley is to alter the direction of belt travel without affecting belt speed. This redirection allows conveyor designers to optimize layout, manage space constraints, and achieve proper belt tension distribution.
In many systems, bend pulleys are installed near the tail section, take-up unit, or return path of the conveyor. By increasing the contact angle between the belt and the drive pulley, bend pulleys indirectly contribute to efficient power transmission and reduced belt slippage.

To meet diverse operating conditions and material handling requirements, bend pulleys are available with different surface configurations.
Smooth bend pulleys are suitable for clean and dry conveying environments where belt tension remains stable. They provide low resistance and consistent belt movement in standard industrial applications.
rubber lagged bend pulleys improve friction between the belt and the pulley surface, enhancing belt grip and reducing the risk of belt slippage, especially under wet, dusty, or high-load conditions.
Rubber lagging patterns include:
Smooth Rubber Lagging – General-purpose friction enhancement
Chevron (Herringbone) Lagging – Improved drainage and grip in moist environments
Diamond Lagging – Multidirectional traction for heavy-duty applications
The selection of lagging type depends on belt speed, material characteristics, and environmental factors.
Bend pulleys are manufactured using a welded steel drum shell that provides excellent strength and durability. Precision welding ensures uniform wall thickness and proper balance, minimizing vibration during operation.
The pulley shaft is made from 45# carbon steel, offering high tensile strength and resistance to torsional stress. This ensures stable performance even under heavy belt tension and continuous operation.
All bend pulleys adopt an integrated bearing housing structure, which enhances alignment accuracy and reduces mechanical stress on bearings. Bearing housings are available in cast iron or cast steel, allowing flexible selection according to load capacity and working conditions.
Reliable bearing performance is essential for the long-term operation of bend pulleys. High-quality rolling bearings are installed in integrated bearing seats and lubricated with industrial-grade grease.
This grease-lubricated system reduces friction, prevents overheating, and protects bearings from dust and moisture. Under normal operating conditions, bend pulleys can achieve 3–5 years of maintenance-free service, significantly reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

Bend pulleys are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations.
Pulley Diameter: 250 mm – 1200 mm
Pulley Length: Customized according to belt width
Belt Width Compatibility: 400 mm – 2400 mm
Shaft Material: 45# carbon steel
Shell Construction: Welded steel structure
Bearing Housing: Integrated type
Bearing Type: Heavy-duty sealed bearings
Lubrication: Grease lubrication
Surface Type: Smooth / Rubber lagged
Lagging Patterns: Smooth, chevron, diamond
Operating Temperature: -25°C to +80°C
All specifications can be customized based on project requirements.
Bend pulleys provide smooth belt redirection with minimal resistance. Rubber lagged surfaces enhance friction and reduce belt wear, while the robust shaft and bearing system ensure stable rotation.
Their optimized structural design minimizes vibration and noise, contributing to reliable long-term operation in industrial environments.
Used in tail sections and return paths of heavy-duty conveyors.
Applied in clinker transport and raw Material Handling Systems.
Installed in ship loaders, unloaders, and stacking conveyors.
Used in coal handling and ash conveying systems.
Suitable for various production and material transfer conveyors.

Correct installation is essential for proper performance. The pulley shaft must be aligned accurately with the conveyor centerline. Bearing housings should be securely mounted to prevent axial or radial movement.
Rubber lagged pulleys require proper belt tension to ensure sufficient friction without excessive wear.
Before commissioning, inspect bearing lubrication, pulley alignment, and belt condition. During operation, monitor noise, vibration, and temperature.
Avoid operating the conveyor under overload conditions or beyond the rated belt tension.
Bend pulleys are designed for low maintenance operation. Regular inspections of bearing condition, lagging wear, and shaft alignment are recommended.
With proper selection and normal use, the service life can reach 3–5 years without major maintenance.
Belt Slippage
Often caused by insufficient friction or worn rubber lagging.
Abnormal Vibration
May result from misalignment or bearing wear.
Uneven Lagging Wear
Usually caused by belt misalignment or uneven tension.
When selecting a bend pulley, consider belt width, conveyor layout, belt tension, and environmental conditions. Rubber lagging type and bearing housing material should be selected based on load and operating environment.
Professional selection ensures optimal conveyor performance and long service life.
We offer comprehensive customization services:
Pulley diameter and length
Rubber lagging material and pattern
Shaft size and reinforcement
Bearing housing material
Anti-corrosion surface treatment
OEM and private-label solutions are available for international customers.
Each bend pulley undergoes strict quality inspection, including dimensional measurement, dynamic balance testing, bearing performance evaluation, and surface inspection. This ensures reliable performance and consistent quality.
What is the main purpose of a bend pulley?
To change the direction of the conveyor belt and optimize belt routing.
Does a bend pulley transmit power?
It does not act as the main drive but influences power transmission efficiency.
Which lagging type should be selected?
Chevron or diamond lagging is recommended for wet or high-load conditions.
How long is the maintenance interval?
Under normal conditions, 3–5 years maintenance-free operation is achievable.
As an experienced conveyor component manufacturer, we supply bend pulleys with reliable structure, flexible selection, and proven durability. Our products are designed to meet international standards and demanding industrial applications.
The bend pulley is a vital component in belt conveyor systems, ensuring smooth belt redirection, optimized layout, and stable operation. With multiple surface options, integrated bearing housing, and long service life, our bend pulleys provide a reliable solution for modern industrial conveying systems.
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