Whether you own a new warehouse or you plan on an upgrade, a conveyor system is the backbone of any good distribution or shipping center. You have several options to consider when it comes to conveyors for your facility. Let’s explore some basic options to help make your decision easier.
Manual Powered Systems
Manual conveyor systems are the cheapest option. They don’t need electricity, motors, or drive systems. You can choose skate wheel or roller type systems. Both have specific advantages.
Skate Wheel Conveyors
With skate wheel systems, the wheels resemble roller skates. These conveyors are lightweight and portable, and the cheapest manual option. They use many wheels mounted on shafts and need little effort to move material. A wheel conveyor system requires almost no maintenance and you can move them from one area to another. They make little noise and this is important for large operations.
Roller Conveyors
Roller systems are sturdier than skate wheel conveyors. However, they need gravity to work. Both roller and skate wheel conveyors are sometimes part of motorized systems.
Motorized Conveyors
Common motorized systems use belts, chains, or rollers. Their power comes from large electric motors. Here is more about them.
Belt Conveyors
These systems use belts driven by pulleys and gears. They require rollers or slider beds to run the belts. Some belts are smooth while others may have textures or ribs. Some belt systems are flat and can run at different angles.
Rollers
Roller systems use lines, belts, or gears to run the rollers. Rollers are smooth and do not have a lot of gripping power. Roller conveyors are not efficient on inclines.
Chains
Chain systems work like belt conveyors. However, the chains use gears which mesh with the chain links. They need less maintenance than belt systems. Professional warehouse design consultants help you choose the right conveyor system for your facility.
