How Do I Choose the Right Conveyor Type?

At some stage in your business, you may wish to automate the transport of a product from one location to another. Choosing the right conveyor type can help save labor costs and time. Some of the factors to consider when picking out a conveyor type are the kinds of items you would like to transport, whether the conveyor needs to operate at an incline, and the environment it will operate in. The flexibility of the conveyor, the distance it will need to move items, and the kind of support the manufacturer provides are also important.

The first step to choosing a conveyor type that is right for you is to consider your requirements. Choose the types of materials you would like to transport. Decide whether it is just one type of material or multiple types. The materials may be fragile or heavy, and they may have regular shapes or irregular shapes like wood chips, for example. The way the material lands on the belt is also important as the belt will need to be strong enough to withstand, for instance, the product falling from a height.

The environment the conveyor will operate in, the size of the belt, and its width and length are other important aspects to consider. If the conveyor has to operate in a greasy environment, then it may collect grease over time, causing the product to slip in transport. Once you've determined your requirements, research various conveyor types to determine the class of belt conveyor you need. It's a good idea to check out videos online of different conveyors to help you get a clearer picture.

Talk to conveyor manufacturers, and see what they suggest. It's best to research extensively the right conveyor type for you. Talking to people in the industry who already use the type of conveyor you are considering is a good idea. Ask them about the pros and cons of the conveyor when it comes to long-term operation. See if you can locate a conveyor operator that is carrying out an operation similar to the one you are considering, and get feedback from that operator.

With more information, you will be able to ask specific questions to the conveyor manufacturer that address key points that may have come up in your research. Speaking to several manufacturers is also helpful because you get more than one viewpoint. It's vital to take your time before making your purchase because the conveyor type must match your specific needs. Otherwise, you will have to make expensive alterations or put up with malfunctions, interrupted work flow, and escalating maintenance costs. Even a fantastic conveyor system will not benefit your business if it doesn't match your requirements or isn't being used in the right way.