Tail Pulley

A tail pulley is a pulley located at the end of a conveyor belt that redirects the belt and helps maintain its tension and alignment.

Basic function

– The tail pulley sits at the loading or return end of the conveyor, opposite the head pulley.

– It changes the belt’s direction back toward the drive pulley and often works with a take‑up device to keep correct belt tension and tracking.

Construction and types

– Tail pulleys are usually cylindrical steel drums, sometimes with flat faces or “wing” profiles that let material fall through and help clean the belt.

– The surface may be plain or covered (lagged) with rubber or ceramic tiles to increase friction, reduce slippage, and improve belt life.

Functions of a Tail Pulley

Belt Tensioning: Keeps the belt taut, reducing slack and preventing material spillage.
Belt Tracking: Guides the return belt, keeping it centered and minimizing veering.
Direction Change: Redirects the belt back towards the drive pulley.
Self-Cleaning (Wing Pulleys): Slatted designs allow material to fall off the return belt, improving cleanliness.
Support: Provides structural support for the return side of the belt