TYPES OF CONVEYOR SYSTEMS TO HELP COMBAT MATERIAL HANDLING PROBLEMS
A conveyor system is one of the most instrumental items for any warehouse, distribution center, or storage operation. Conveyor systems are what transports materials from one area to another in your facility. Having the best system for your needs will ensure that you complete the job in a safe, timely, and efficient manner.
Before shopping for a conveyor system, it is essential to know your needs and what types of systems are available. Most systems on the market are either electric or gravity-based. Choosing between these two will fall on what materials you need conveying.
GRAVITY CONVEYOR SYSTEM
As you may guess from the name, gravity conveyor systems use gravity in conjunction with rollers, wheels, and even chutes to move items from one area to the next. Companies use gravity systems to transport items at an angle. When used at an incline or with human resources, you can easily use gravity conveyor systems to move, shelve, and box different types of materials.
The gravity conveyor is cost-effective due to it not needing electrical power. Expensive maintenance is also less of a worry with this type of system. This system’s most significant disadvantage is that it lacks absolute control over the transported items. Because gravity is behind its movement, you won’t be able to control the speed.
POWER CONVEYOR SYSTEMS
On the other hand, power conveyors give you the ability to control the system and its operations. Power conveyors are power sourced systems that utilize motorized power to handle materials and move them from one area to another.
Unlike their counterpart, electric powered conveyors do not need inclines or assistance to make materials move. Its motorized system will allow materials of all sizes to move even on a flat level or a long distance. Although pricier, it is more convenient if you are handling large bulk items.
There are many types of motorized conveyor systems, such as the roller conveyor, chain driven, pallet system, and more. Power systems also include sorting systems that allow you to have several work stations that sort, arrange, and even package materials. Due to their versatility, power conveyors will be more suitable for more intricate jobs.
WHICH SYSTEM WILL BEST HELP WITH YOUR MATERIAL HANDLING PROBLEMS?
To determine which system is best, you must identify your needs. If you are a manufacturer and dealing with large materials, a power conveyor will be a better choice. A power conveyor is also best for materials that are traveling to longer distances within your facility.
The gravity conveyor is ideal for lighter items that can be conveyed simply by placing them on an incline or physical manipulation such as pushing by hand. These conveyors are convenient for some but are not ideal for manufacturers and other larger operating systems.
If you are not sure which system is best for your operation, a material handling company can help guide you in making the proper choice. An investment such as this can propel your company to the next level.
