HIGH PROFILE- ROXON
Unlike traditional systems that rely on embedded conductive wires or spot sensors during the belt’ s manufacturing process, HX Belt Monitor offers continuous, full-surface scanning of the entire belt – both top and bottom covers
3D deformation detection
In heavy industries where conveyor belts are the strategic lifeline of production, even a minor failure can cause significant downtime, safety risks and financial loss. This is where belt monitoring comes in, providing improved transparency about a belt’ s operating conditions.
ROXON’ s HX Belt Monitor stands out in this field, according to the company.
“ Unlike traditional systems that rely on embedded conductive wires or spot sensors during the belt’ s manufacturing process, HX Belt Monitor offers continuous, full-surface scanning of the entire belt – both top and bottom covers,” it said.“ This approach ensures no section of the belt is left unchecked.
“ It is especially effective right after the loading and unloading points, where damage is most likely to occur. Thanks to its advanced 3D optical technology, the system captures even sub-millimeter wear
Harri Pikkarainen, the inventor of the HX Belt Monitor, said the first ideation phase of product development began back in 2007
26 that would easily go unnoticed by the human eye.”
What truly sets the HX Belt Monitor apart is its real-time intelligence that acts instantly, according to ROXON. The system constantly evaluates the belt’ s condition and instantly detects any new damage or signs of worsening wear.
The solution automatically records the existing belt damage and alerts operators when new damage occurs, or existing damage is getting worse. When critical damage is detected, HX Belt Monitor stops the conveyor automatically. This rapid reaction capability not only prevents expensive damage to the belt itself but also protects surrounding machinery and personnel.
Harri Pikkarainen, the inventor of the HX Belt Monitor, answered some questions about the solution.
Q: How did the idea for the HX Belt Monitor come about?
A: My background is in optical and laser measurement, both in teaching and research. I was giving a presentation at an event in Kemi, Finland, and, after the seminar, one of the participants asked if optical measurement techniques could be used to monitor conveyor belt conditions. I immediately understood the challenge they were trying to solve. And I believed a solution could be developed. I had a strong desire to become an entrepreneur, and so the first ideation phase of product development began back in 2007.
Q. What problem were you aiming to solve with this product?
A: In many industries, conveyor belts are still monitored visually by workers. There are a lot of belts, they can be extremely long and fast-moving, and the surrounding conditions are often harsh. Manual inspections are neither efficient nor reliable enough for critical belts, which really require continuous monitoring. A serious failure can occur at anytime, anywhere along the belt. If a belt suffers critical damage, the consequences can be severe. In mining, for example, material can suddenly move uncontrollably, damaging equipment and posing a serious risk to personnel. Unplanned shutdowns are always expensive.
The HX Belt Monitor inspects the entire belt continuously, 24 / 7, from both sides, and detects even the smallest changes in belt condition. It performs a 3D optical scan of the surface and automatically monitors for potential faults. This helps anticipate maintenance needs and significantly reduces unplanned downtime. The system also collects valuable data that customers can use to improve their operations over time.
Q: How does the HX Belt Monitor compare to competing solutions?
A: Many current systems rely on sensors or metallic wires embedded in the belt, measuring electrical conductivity. However, they don’ t cover the entire belt, and installation often has to be carried out during belt manufacturing. Our system is easily installed afterward and doesn’ t require any changes to the belt. It measures 3D deformations across the entire surface and detects early signs of damage. It’ s without a doubt the most comprehensive and accurate solution on the market.
Monitoring the condition of a critical conveyor belt can’ t rely only on scheduled maintenance. Belt lifespan can end in an instant – a rock or foreign object can damage it at any time. It’ s crucial to detect wear and perform timely maintenance before the belt tears over a longer stretch. That way, companies can minimise downtime and reduce safety risks.
Q: Who was the first customer to use the HX Belt Monitor, and where is it used now?
International Mining | OCTOBER 2026