Course Description

This course introduces the fundamentals of conveyor belt systems used in mining, aggregate, and bulk-material handling industries. Learners explore how conveyors evolved, how they are constructed and designed, and how each component—from belts and idlers to drives and pulleys—works together to move material safely and efficiently. Emphasis is placed on workplace safety, system reliability, and practical field knowledge. Through diagrams, examples, and review sections, participants develop a solid understanding of the mechanical and operational principles that form the foundation for advanced conveyor training.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• New or entry-level employees in mining, aggregates, or industrial maintenance.
• Safety officers, plant operators, and maintenance personnel who work around conveyors.
• Engineers, designers, or supervisors new to bulk-material handling.
• Technical trainers developing in-house onboarding or refresher programs.

No prior engineering background is required—concepts are explained in clear, accessible language supported by visuals and examples.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the history and purpose of conveyor systems and their role in material handling.
2. Identify major conveyor components and describe their functions.
3. Interpret basic CEMA standards, belt construction terms, and design principles.
4. Apply proper safety practices, including Lock-Out / Tag-Out / Try-Out (LOTO-T) and guarding awareness.
5. Recognize common operational issues such as belt misalignment, dust generation, and improper transitions.
6. Recommend safe storage, splicing, and maintenance procedures that extend belt life.
7. Prepare for intermediate-level training on conveyor operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting (Conveyor Systems 102).

Duration: 6 Hours

Category: Mining

Level: Introductory   

About the Authors

Ginger L. Hustrulid is a mining engineer and industry professional with extensive experience in bulk material handling and conveyor system operations. Throughout her career, she has worked across mining, processing, and industrial maintenance environments, specializing in conveyor belt design, splicing, conveyor training, and troubleshooting. As one of the first female production supervisors in her field, Ginger brings a unique combination of technical expertise and leadership insight, having managed both people and processes in demanding industrial settings.

Her passion lies in education and practical skill development, helping technicians, operators, and engineers understand the “why” behind conveyor performance and safety. Through her work, she has built comprehensive training modules that bridge the gap between classroom theory and field application—making complex topics approachable and relevant to real-world operations.

With over two decades of applied experience in conveyor systems, Ginger’s courses emphasize safety, reliability, and teamwork as the foundations of operational excellence. Her teaching style blends clear, technical instruction with real-world examples that encourage learners to think critically, work safely, and take pride in the systems they maintain.

Dr. Andrew I. Hustrulid is a mechanical engineer with over 30 years of international experience in conveyor systems and bulk material handling. His expertise spans design, analysis, troubleshooting, and training in conveyor systems. Dr. Hustrulid’s style emphasizes bridging practical field experience with theoretical engineering principles, enabling operators, technicians, and engineers to improve system safety, reliability, and efficiency. With a strong foundation in applied research and technical development, Dr. Hustrulid’s work has focused on improving the performance, durability, and reliability of conveyor systems used across mining and industrial operations.

His career bridges both academic and practical applications—combining the analytical precision of engineering design with the field experience gained through collaboration with mining operations and equipment manufacturers. Dr. Hustrulid’s research interests include advanced conveyor mechanics, belt splicing technology, and sustainable materials handling systems. He frequently teaches courses such as Belt Conveyor Design in collaboration with academic institutions like the Colorado School of Mines.