FIELD: machine building. SUBSTANCE: invention relates to hoisting-and-transport machine building, namely, to belt conveyors where belt tensioning devices are used. Conveyor includes tacho generators connected kinematically to axes of driving and tensioning drums, elements of comparison of signals of tacho generators and drive of translational movement of tensioning drum, controlled by output signal of comparison element (comparator). Distinctive feature of the proposal is that the conveyor is equipped with elements disconnecting the tension control system for the period of acceleration of the tensioning drum to a predetermined speed at start-up of the conveyor. EFFECT: technical result is prevention of excessive belt tension at conveyor start-up, increase of its reliability and durability.