The external motorized drum is a critical power transmission component in modern Conveyor Systems, designed to integrate drive efficiency, mechanical stability, and long-term operational reliability. Unlike internal motorized drums or conventional pulley systems with external gearboxes, the external motorized drum adopts a robust mechanical structure in which the drum itself serves as the primary power transmission element, driven by an externally mounted motor and reducer.
This design offers significant advantages in torque transmission, maintenance accessibility, and adaptability to a wide range of industrial conveying conditions. External motorized drums are widely used in bulk Material Handling Systems, mining conveyors, port loading equipment, cement plants, power stations, metallurgy, chemical processing, and other heavy-duty industrial environments where continuous and stable operation is essential.
The external motorized drum functions as the main drive pulley of the conveyor. Power generated by the motor is transmitted through a coupling or reducer to the drum shaft, causing the drum to rotate and drive the Conveyor Belt through frictional contact between the belt and the drum surface.
The drum assembly consists of a welded steel shell, a solid shaft manufactured from high-strength 45# steel, integrated bearing housings, and precision bearings lubricated with high-quality grease. This configuration ensures excellent load-bearing capacity, smooth rotation, and consistent torque output.
By placing the motor externally, the system benefits from improved heat dissipation, easier inspection, and flexible motor selection according to different power requirements.

To adapt to different conveying processes and material characteristics, external motorized drums are available in multiple surface configurations.
Smooth surface drums are suitable for clean, dry conveying conditions with stable belt tension. They provide reliable performance in applications where high friction is not critical.
Rubber lagging significantly enhances friction between the belt and the drum, reducing slippage and improving drive efficiency.
Rubber lagging options include:
Smooth Rubber Lagging – Ideal for general-purpose applications
Chevron (Herringbone) Rubber Lagging – Improves water drainage and traction in wet conditions
Diamond Rubber Lagging – Provides multidirectional grip for heavy-duty and high-torque applications
Each lagging type is selected based on material properties, operating environment, and required friction coefficient.
External motorized drums are manufactured in a wide range of specifications to suit different conveyor systems.
Drum Diameter: 320 mm – 1200 mm
Drum Length: Customized according to belt width
Belt Width Compatibility: 500 mm – 2400 mm
Shaft Material: 45# carbon steel
Shell Material: Welded steel construction
Bearing Housing: Integrated solid bearing seat
Bearing Type: Heavy-duty sealed rolling bearings
Lubrication Method: Grease lubrication
Lagging Thickness: 8 mm – 20 mm (customizable)
Drive Power Range: 5.5 kW – 315 kW
Operating Temperature: -25°C to +80°C
All parameters can be customized according to project requirements.
All external motorized drums adopt an integrated bearing housing design, which enhances structural rigidity and ensures precise bearing alignment. This reduces vibration, minimizes wear, and extends bearing service life.
The grease-lubricated bearing system is designed for long-term operation under heavy loads. Under normal operating conditions, the drum can achieve 3–5 years of maintenance-free service, significantly reducing downtime and operating costs.
The drum shaft is manufactured from high-quality 45# steel, offering excellent mechanical strength, fatigue resistance, and torsional performance. The drum shell is fabricated using precision-welded steel plates, ensuring uniform wall thickness and structural balance.
Bearing housings are available in cast iron or cast steel options, depending on load requirements and operating conditions. Each component undergoes strict dimensional inspection and dynamic balancing to ensure smooth operation at high speeds.

External motorized drums provide strong torque transmission and stable belt driving performance. Rubber lagging enhances traction and reduces belt slippage, while the rigid shaft and integrated bearing structure ensure consistent operation even under fluctuating loads.
The external motor configuration simplifies maintenance, allowing motors and reducers to be serviced or replaced without dismantling the drum assembly.
Designed to handle high loads, abrasive materials, and continuous operation.
Used in clinker transport, raw material handling, and finished product conveying.
Ideal for ship loaders, stackers, and reclaimers requiring reliable power transmission.
Applied in coal handling systems with demanding operational cycles.
Suitable for harsh environments with dust, moisture, and temperature variations.
Correct installation is essential for optimal performance. The drum shaft must be precisely aligned with the conveyor centerline. The motor and reducer should be securely mounted on a rigid base to prevent misalignment.
Rubber lagged drums should be installed with proper belt tension to maximize friction without excessive wear.
Before operation, check bearing lubrication, motor alignment, and belt tension. During operation, monitor vibration, noise, and temperature. Avoid overloading the conveyor beyond its design capacity.
Under normal conditions, the drum operates continuously without manual intervention.
Thanks to its integrated bearing housing and grease lubrication system, the external motorized drum requires minimal maintenance. Periodic inspections are recommended to check bearing condition, lagging wear, and shaft alignment.
With proper operation, the service life can reach 3–5 years without major maintenance.
Belt Slippage
Usually caused by insufficient friction or worn rubber lagging.
Abnormal Noise
May indicate bearing wear or misalignment.
Uneven Lagging Wear
Often results from improper belt tension or misalignment.
When selecting an external motorized drum, consider belt width, conveyor length, material type, required torque, and operating environment. Rubber lagging type and bearing housing material should be selected according to application demands.
We provide customized solutions including:
Drum diameter and length
Rubber lagging pattern and thickness
Shaft size and material upgrade
Bearing housing configuration
OEM branding and export packaging
Each drum undergoes dynamic balance testing, bearing load testing, and surface inspection before delivery. Strict quality control ensures reliable performance in long-term industrial operation.
Is the external motor included?
The drum can be supplied with or without motor according to customer preference.
What is the difference between smooth and rubber lagged drums?
Rubber lagging provides higher friction and better traction.
Can the drum be used in wet environments?
Yes, especially with chevron or diamond rubber lagging.
What is the maintenance interval?
Under normal conditions, maintenance is minimal for up to 3–5 years.
As a professional conveyor equipment manufacturer, we provide external motorized drums with reliable structure, flexible selection, and long service life. Our products are designed to meet international standards and demanding industrial requirements.
The external motorized drum is a reliable and efficient drive solution for industrial conveyor systems. With its robust structure, multiple surface options, integrated bearing design, and long maintenance-free service life, it delivers stable power transmission and reduced operating costs. Choosing the right external motorized drum ensures efficient conveying performance and long-term system reliability.
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