In the manufacturing industry, conveyor belt systems play a crucial role. These devices improve the speed and accuracy of processing. They eliminate the need for additional personnel and reduce the time it takes to move items. The systems are particularly helpful for larger items over long distances. Different types of conveyors are available to meet your production needs. You will choose a system based on your needs and the specifics of your processing. It is important to be aware of the most common flat belt conveyor systems.
An Overview of Conveyors and Their Purpose
Conveyor systems are continuously moving strips to take items from place to place. You will find them in a variety of businesses and industries. These include automotive businesses, food processing, airports, pharmaceutical and medical facilities, and much more. Custom conveyor systems may have more than two pulleys. The transport flow circuit of the conveyor belt goes around the system. Continuously feeding the pulley makes the belt move. The belts typically have PV or rubber in several layers. But they can also consist of leather, nylon, or polyester.
The lower layer of the system is the body. It provides strength and gives the device its shape. The upper layer is the cover. It usually consists of different plastic materials. Custom conveyor belt systems can speed up the time it takes to move a product from area to area. They can safely handle large and heavy objects that would otherwise be difficult to transport. A company may also use conveyors to handle sensitive, fragile items.
Solid and General-Use Belt Conveyors
Perhaps the conveyor you will most frequently see is the solid general-purpose belt conveyor. The materials that make up this system include rubber, nylon, and polyester. Milling and mining businesses use these conveyors. In these instances, the belts consist of rubber. Grocery stores also use these belts.
Filter Belt
This type lets particles pass through filters in the system. This is different from other types, which move items along the belts. You will see this variety in places that discharge excess liquids or toxins. An example would be in the water treatment industry.
Woven Metal Belt
In businesses that have cooling, drying, or heating needs, a woven metal belt can be helpful. These belts are common in glass manufacturing and electronics. Food manufacturing plants use them too. They consist of connected cables or chains. These components make it easier for air to flow while the product moves along the line.
Hinged Belts
Custom conveyor belt systems may handle smaller items instead of bulky ones. In this instance, a hinged belt is a good choice. It has the durability and makeup to accommodate scrap metal and recycling material. Made of metal, these belts have a rigid, flat surface that moves around the pulley through a hinge. The belt is sturdy and can withstand strong forces.
Plastic Lock Belts
Places that want an alternative to metal or cloth belts often choose plastic lock belts. They are easy to clean and replace. Food packaging facilities and automotive businesses often use them.
Flat Belt Conveyor Systems
When it comes to industrial use, this type of conveyor can cater well to business needs. It is easy to adjust and customize these systems. The belts have natural and synthetic fibers, including nylon and polyester. They move objects and materials continuously along a flat surface.
Inclined or Decreasing Conveyor Belts
Some custom conveyor systems help move items at various angles. When this need arises, inclined or decreasing conveyors are important.
Curved Conveyor Belt
A curved conveyor belt can also be helpful in some operations. This variety moves products around the bottom edge of the device. This provides more space and maximizes the layout of the facility.
Modular Conveyor Belts
Yet another type of system, this one employs a series of interwoven belts. Normally, hard plastics will make up this type of conveyor.
Safety Issues
Flat belt conveyor systems and other types can increase the safety of handling and moving materials. Manually lifting, carrying, and transporting objects can be taxing. These activities can cause injuries. Accidents and even death can occur in factories where people move large items. Conveyor systems can significantly reduce these risks.
A Flexible Solution
Another nice aspect of conveyors is that they can meet an array of business needs. Some systems are moveable and can handle different tasks. You can also install a conveyor in little time with minimal disruptions. Doing this will benefit your business and daily operations. You can also better meet the needs and demands of your customers.
Choosing a Solution
Picking the right custom conveyor belt systems is vital, but it does not have to be difficult. Consider the types of material you handle and move in your business. Then review the types of conveyors and their purposes. You should also evaluate the layout and size of your facility. This will help determine the proper configuration of your conveyor system.
Improve Your Processes and Efficiency with a Conveyor System
You may need to install a new flat belt conveyor system or replace an existing one. Be aware of the different types available so you can make the right choice. The team at CONOVEY can help you choose and install one that makes the most sense. Call the company today so you can begin to enjoy the benefits that conveyors provide.