Top 10 Conveyor Brand & Manufacturers

What is Conveyor

A conveyor is a mechanical device used to transport materials or objects from one place to another within a factory, warehouse, or other industrial or commercial settings. It consists of a continuous loop of a flexible material, such as a belt, chain, or rollers, which moves along a fixed path and is powered by an electric motor or other drive mechanisms.

History of Conveyor

The history of conveyors dates back to the late 18th century when simple conveyor systems were first used in mining and shipping operations. In the early 20th century, the modern conveyor belt made of rubber was patented, which led to significant advancements in conveyor technology. Since then, conveyors have continuously evolved and improved in terms of materials, design, and functionality. They have become an essential part of modern industrial automation, enabling efficient and continuous material handling in various industries such as manufacturing, logistics, mining, and food processing.

Purpose of Conveyor

• Material Transport: The primary purpose of a conveyor is to move materials or products from one location to another. It can handle a wide variety of items, including raw materials, finished products, and packaged goods. This automated transportation system reduces the need for manual labor and increases the efficiency of the production process, allowing for a continuous flow of materials and faster production times.


• Sorting and Distribution: Conveyors can be equipped with sorting mechanisms to separate and direct items to different destinations based on specific criteria such as size, weight, or destination. This is commonly used in warehouses and distribution centers to sort and route products to the correct shipping lanes or storage areas, improving the efficiency of order fulfillment and inventory management.


• Assembly Line Operations: In manufacturing plants, conveyors are often used as part of an assembly line. They move components and subassemblies from one workstation to another, allowing workers to perform specific tasks at each station. This enables a continuous and efficient production process, increasing productivity and reducing production time. It also helps to ensure consistent quality by providing a standardized and controlled movement of parts through the production process.


• Loading and Unloading: Conveyors can be used to load and unload materials from trucks, ships, and other transportation vehicles. They can be extended to the loading docks or directly into the cargo holds, facilitating the quick and efficient transfer of goods between different modes of transportation. This reduces the time and labor required for loading and unloading and improves the overall efficiency of the supply chain.

Principle of Conveyor

Conveyors operate on the principle of frictional force. The motor-driven rollers or pulleys create a frictional force on the surface of the belt, chain, or rollers, causing them to move continuously in a loop. The materials or products placed on the conveyor are carried along with the movement of the conveyor due to the frictional force between the conveyor and the items. The speed and direction of the conveyor can be controlled by adjusting the motor speed and the orientation of the rollers or pulleys. Additionally, some conveyors use additional mechanisms such as cleats, sidewalls, or magnetic elements to enhance the grip and stability of the transported materials.

Features of Conveyor

1. Flexibility: Conveyors are made of flexible materials or consist of flexible components, allowing them to be bent and curved to fit different layouts and transportation paths. This flexibility enables the conveyor system to be customized to meet the specific needs of the industrial facility, whether it's a straight line, a circular path, or a complex network of conveyors. It can also be adjusted in length and width to accommodate different sizes of materials and production requirements.
2. High Capacity: They can handle large volumes of materials and products at a relatively high speed. The load-carrying capacity of a conveyor depends on its width, thickness, and the strength of the material used. Some heavy-duty conveyors can transport tons of materials per hour, making them suitable for large-scale industrial operations. This high capacity helps to increase productivity and meet the demands of high-volume production and distribution.
3. Durability: Conveyors are designed to withstand the rigors of continuous use and heavy loads. The materials used, such as rubber, plastic, metal, or a combination thereof, are selected for their durability and resistance to wear, tear, and abrasion. Regular maintenance and proper installation can further extend the lifespan of the conveyor, ensuring reliable and long-term operation.[!--empirenews.page--]
4. Safety: Conveyors are equipped with various safety features to protect workers and prevent accidents. These include emergency stop buttons, safety guards, and sensors that detect the presence of objects or people on the conveyor. Some conveyors also have anti-slip surfaces and low-noise operation to reduce the risk of slips and falls and noise pollution in the workplace. Additionally, safety procedures and training are often provided to ensure the safe use and operation of the conveyor system.
5. Customization: They can be customized in terms of width, length, speed, and the type of material used to meet the specific requirements of different industries and applications. Additionally, conveyors can be equipped with special features such as heat-resistant coatings, anti-static properties, or food-grade materials for specific uses in industries such as food processing and electronics manufacturing. This customization allows for the optimization of the conveyor system to suit the unique needs of each operation.

Types of Conveyor

• Flat Belt Conveyor: This is the most common type of conveyor, consisting of a flat, continuous belt that moves along a series of rollers. It is suitable for transporting a wide variety of flat and relatively light items, such as packaged goods, documents, and small parts. Flat belt conveyors can be easily customized in terms of width and length and can be used in both horizontal and inclined positions. They are often used in warehouses, distribution centers, and light manufacturing operations.


• Roller Conveyor: Roller conveyors use a series of rollers instead of a continuous belt to transport materials. The rollers are usually powered by a motor and rotate to move the items placed on them. Roller conveyors are ideal for transporting heavy and bulky items, such as pallets, crates, and large machinery components. They can also be used for sorting and accumulating items by controlling the rotation of the rollers. They are commonly found in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and logistics centers.


• Bucket Conveyor: Bucket conveyors have a series of buckets attached to a chain or belt. The buckets are used to carry bulk materials such as grains, coal, and ores. The conveyor moves the buckets in a loop, lifting the materials from one location to another. Bucket conveyors are often used in mining, agriculture, and the food processing industry for transporting granular or powdered materials. They are particularly useful for vertical or inclined transportation of bulk materials.


• Magnetic Conveyor Belt: Magnetic conveyor belts use magnetic force to transport ferromagnetic materials. The belt is embedded with magnets or has a magnetic surface that attracts and holds the magnetic items as the belt moves. Magnetic conveyor belts are commonly used in the recycling and metalworking industries to separate and transport metal parts and scrap. They can also be used in other industries where the separation and transportation of magnetic materials are required.

Precautions for using Conveyor

• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the conveyor for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Check the belt surface for cracks, cuts, and abrasions, and the rollers and pulleys for proper alignment and rotation. Any damaged or worn parts should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage and ensure the safe operation of the conveyor system. Additionally, check the motors, drives, and other electrical components for proper functioning.


• Proper Loading: Ensure that the materials or products are properly loaded onto the conveyor to prevent overloading and uneven weight distribution. Overloading can cause the belt to sag, slip, or break, and uneven weight distribution can lead to misalignment and reduced efficiency. Follow the recommended load limits and loading procedures provided by the manufacturer. Also, make sure that the materials are placed evenly and do not protrude beyond the edges of the conveyor.


• Cleaning and Maintenance: Keep the conveyor clean to prevent the buildup of dirt, debris, and other materials that could affect its performance and cause damage. Use appropriate cleaning methods and equipment to remove any foreign substances from the belt surface and the rollers. Regularly lubricate the rollers and pulleys and check the tension of the belt to maintain its proper operation. Also, perform routine maintenance on the motors, drives, and other electrical components according to the manufacturer's instructions.


• Employee Training: Provide proper training to employees who operate and maintain the conveyor system. They should be familiar with the safety procedures, operating instructions, and emergency stop procedures. Employees should also be trained to recognize and report any signs of malfunction or potential hazards. Additionally, ensure that employees wear appropriate personal protective equipment when working near the conveyor.[!--empirenews.page--]


• Fire and Explosion Hazards: In some industries, such as the mining and chemical industries, conveyors may be exposed to flammable or explosive materials. Take appropriate safety measures to prevent fire and explosion hazards, such as using fire-resistant belts, installing explosion-proof motors and electrical equipment, and implementing proper ventilation systems. Also, follow the relevant safety regulations and standards for handling hazardous materials on the conveyor.

Things to consider when purchasing Conveyor

• Application Requirements: Determine the specific requirements of your application, such as the type of materials to be transported, the required load capacity, the speed and distance of transportation, and the layout of the conveyor system. This will help you select the appropriate type and size of conveyor and its components. Consider the size and shape of the materials, the volume of production, and the available space for installation.


• Quality and Durability: Look for conveyors that are made of high-quality materials and have a good reputation for durability and performance. Read customer reviews and seek recommendations from other industry users to ensure that the conveyor will last for a long time and withstand the rigors of your operations. A higher-quality conveyor may have a higher initial cost but can save you money in the long run through reduced replacement and maintenance costs.


• Cost and Budget: Consider the cost of the conveyor, including the initial purchase price, as well as the long-term costs of maintenance, replacement, and any potential downtime costs. Compare prices from different suppliers and choose the most cost-effective option. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best in terms of quality and performance. Consider the total cost of ownership over the life of the conveyor.


• Brand and Reputation: Research different brands of conveyors and their reputations in the market. Look for companies with a good track record of producing reliable and high-quality conveyors. A well-known brand is more likely to offer good customer support and have a track record of successful installations and operations. Check the company's history, customer testimonials, and industry reputation.


• After-sales Service and Support: Check the availability of after-sales service, including technical support, spare parts availability, and maintenance contracts. A reliable service network can be crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the conveyor system and minimizing downtime in case of any issues. Ensure that the supplier can provide prompt and efficient service and has a stock of spare parts readily available.

Terms of Conveyor

Some common terms related to conveyor include frictional force, flat belt conveyor, roller conveyor, bucket conveyor, magnetic conveyor belt, load capacity, and customization. Understanding these terms is important for effectively operating, maintaining, and purchasing conveyors.