By its definition, a conveyor system is a piece of mechanical equipment which is used to mobilize materials, products, or goods from one location to another. This system minimizes several risks such as human and workplace errors, it also reduces labor costs. Due to its quickness and efficiency, it has become the core element of modern industrial world. There are several types of conveyor that are designed according to the needs of a particular industry. In this article, we will talk about how conveyor systems work, the benefits, and types of conveyor that are commonly used.
How does it work?
A conveyor systems generally consists of a belt and two (or more) pulleys. The belt is looped around the pulleys, so it will rotate according to the direction of the drive pulley. The common designs of conveyor system use a rotor to power the drive pulley and belt. In order of the belt to move effectively, the drive pulley and idler must move in the same direction.
What are the benefits?
The very first and prominent benefit of conveyor systems is its ability to move objects that are too heavy for humans to carry by hand. Conveyor systems also save time. Because they can be inclined to span multiple levels, conveyor systems make moving objects between floors so much easier.
Types of conveyor systems
Belt Conveyors
Belt conveyors use looped belts that wrap around both ends of roller drive. They are typically moved by a motor or with a speed control. The shape of the belt is either flat, inclined, or declined. These conveyors are normally used for consumable products that are safe for food or food grade, hence there is no chemical contamination in the production process. The function itself is to move production of raw materials and production output to the next assembly line and packaging line.
Roller Conveyors
This conveyor system is usually built with strong materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or steel. The material that is used depends on the products that are moved. Stainless steel is commonly used for products that are safe for human consumption. Roller conveyors use chain or belt to rotate the rollers.
Table Top Chain Conveyor
Table top chain conveyors use chain system that uses motor to move it. The connecting chains can be made of plastic or stainless steel, depending on the products that are moved. This type of conveyor is usually used to move products that are shaped like cylinder, such as bottles or cans. Table top chain conveyors are not only used to move products, they are also used for filling process or labeling.
Modular Conveyor
This conveyor system consists of assembled individual plastic plates. This system allows segmented belt replacement on certain damaged parts, which safes time and maintenance cost. Modular conveyor systems are typically used on consumable products that requires sterile process and equipments within the production line. Compared to PVC or PU belt conveyor, modular conveyors are much more dynamic and much easier to adjust to the space available for processes.