Full definition
The section of a conveyor system where bulk material is deposited onto the moving belt, typically at the tail end or at intermediate transfer points. This is the highest-stress area for the belt due to material impact, abrasion, and off-center loading forces. Key components: (1) Hopper/chute — directs material flow onto belt center, designed to match material to belt speed and direction (per CEMA loading guidelines). (2) Impact idlers or impact cradle — absorb drop energy, protect belt carcass from puncture (see impact idler). (3) Skirting — rubber edge seals containing material on the belt through the settling zone. (4) Dust curtains — suppress dust at entry and exit. (5) Wear liners — replaceable steel, rubber, or ceramic panels protecting the chute walls. Loading zone length: typically 2-3x belt width plus settling distance. The chute should center the material stream within the middle third of the belt and match material velocity to belt speed to minimize wear and turbulence. Per CEMA 7th Edition and DIN 22101. Brands for loading zone components: Martin Engineering, ASGCO, Flexco, Brelko.