Surface Idlers

Idlers

Caterpillar offers different types of idlers to match all mining conditions.

Roller Belt

Our underground idlers and structure are available in roof-hung, floor-mounted or wire rope configurations. Key features include long life and reliability, consistent internal tolerances, triple-testing and monitoring of roll life, and easy retrofitting to any frame.

Both steel and EXALON (polyethylene) rolls are available in 10, 13, 15 and 18 cm (4, 5, 6 and 7 in) roll diameters in CEMA classes C, D and E with tapered roller bearings. Rolls use our double quadruple labyrinth v-ring seal, with the industry's longest path to the bearings.

Longer life & reliability

The roll features a patent-pending lubrication system called Idler PAL (Positive Automatic Lubrication). A spring-loaded compensator disk allows grease expansion when hot and compresses grease as the bearings cool. Breathing bearings live longer, and are greased for life. Our engineers also designed new assembly processes and techniques to make sure that every steel roll is put together the same way, and with consistent internal tolerances, to maximize bearing life. Our modified-geometry tapered roller bearing retention method positions the bearing while ensuring consistent reproducible end play. In short, these idlers are designed for longer service life.

Triple tested quality

Every Cat® roll is triple-tested for rotational torque, total indicated run-out and bearing play. Likewise, the data is stored with the unique identifying data and serial number allowing monitoring of roll life.

Easy retrofit to any frame

It's easy to replace competitor box frames with Cat frames, as they are dimensionally compatible. Retrofitting rolls is a snap with RETRO-LOC.

Steel Rolls

The Cat steel roll represents new technology in idler design. A new shaft-end configuration and a unique retrofit adaptor allow Cat rolls to operate in virtually any competitor's frame.

The end cap (bearing housing) has been redesigned for increased strength and a close fit to the deflector cap. A new automated assembly process includes an industry first: three separate, metered grease inputs ensuring that every roll has plenty of grease for a lifetime of trouble-free operation. In addition, Idler PAL ensures that the grease stays where it is needed — in the bearing.

Another industry first is Cat Electronic Quality Tracking. We offer serial numbering of rolls as standard, allowing the life of each roll to be accurately monitored. We're also the only idler manufacturer to quality check each roll for rotational torque, total indicated run-out (TIR), and bearing end play, as well as testing each roll to ensure complete grease distribution throughout bearings and seals. This quality data is electronically stored under the serial number for each roll to provide traceable information throughout the life of the product.

EXALON® Rolls

EXALON is a high-molecular-weight polyethylene conveyor roll constructed of a proprietary formulation, which is fully conductive and MSHA approved for flame resistance to ensure safe use in underground applications. EXALON has been tested against the bulk material handling industry's leading steel conveyor rolls and is proven to last significantly longer, specifically in highly corrosive and/or highly abrasive environments.

EXALON conveyor rolls offer significant operating and cost advantages over traditional steel rolls. They last longer, are designed to decrease belt damage, weigh less than steel rolls, reduce noise levels, and resist material buildup of material and static.

NOTE: Models subject to regional availability. Please check with your local dealer for more information.