Split sprocket assembly, related apparatus, and related mounting method

A sprocket assembly intended for mounting on the outer surface of a rotatable structure, such as a drum or shaft, for engaging an endless conveyor belt making the transition between a forward and a return run, comprising:

• a plurality of sprocket sections or segments, each of the sections or segments having an arcuate inner surface and at least two ends, each of the ends including an aperture;
• a plurality of fasteners, each for fastening a first end of one of the plurality of sprocket sections to a second, corresponding end of an adjacent sprocket section, said fasteners including a threaded bolt for positioning through said apertures in said first and second ends and a nut for placement on a portion of said bolt projecting through one of said apertures;
• wherein a centerline extending through a matching pair of the apertures is generally parallel to a line drawn tangent to a point at an interface between the ends of two adjacent sprocket sections or segments when positioned in an abutting relationship, and
• whereby tightening of the nut against a surface of the sprocket section or segment adjacent to the aperture through which the bolt projects creates a tension between the adjacent sprocket sections.

An apparatus intended for use in engaging and guiding an endless conveyor belt making the transition between a forward and a return run or vice-versa, comprising:

• a structure mounted for rotation about an axis, the structure including an outer surface having a first plurality of keyways, at least one of the first keyways being truncated and hence extending only partially across the outer surface in an axial direction;
• a first split sprocket comprised of at least three sections or segments, the first sprocket having an inner surface and a plurality of receivers;
• a first plurality of keys, each positioned at least partially in one of the receivers such that a portion thereof projects inwardly therefrom and is adapted for seating engagement in one of the keyways;
• and
• a fastener for fastening each sprocket section or segment to an adjacent sprocket section or segment.