• Amanda
• November 24, 2020

Exploring the Top 8 Conveyor Systems

Choosing the right conveyor system can significantly enhance your operation’s efficiency and productivity, but with so many types of conveyors to purchase or hire, it can be challenging to decide. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various conveyor options, explain their unique benefits, and guide you toward selecting the ideal system to optimise your workflow and achieve your operational goals.

1. Belt Conveyors

A belt conveyor system is a common material handling mechanism that transports items from one location to another along a continuous loop of material, typically made of rubber, fabric or plastic. One of the most popular conveyor types, the system comprises two or more pulleys, known as drums, with a belt stretched between them. One pulley is powered by an electric motor, propelling the belt and moving materials forward, while the other pulley remains idle, maintaining tension and alignment.

Benefits:

• Versatility: Suitable for transporting a wide range of materials, including bulk items and unit loads.
• Efficiency: Automates material movement, reducing manual labour and increasing productivity.
• Customisability: Can be tailored in length, width and configuration to meet specific operational requirements.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Offers a relatively low operational cost due to its simple design and energy efficiency.
• Safety: Reduces the risk of workplace injuries associated with manual material handling.

2. Screw Conveyors

A screw conveyor system, also known as an auger conveyor, is a widely used mechanism for transporting bulk materials. It consists of a helical screw blade, called a flighting, mounted on a central shaft within a tubular or U-shaped trough. As the screw rotates, it moves materials along the conveyor’s length. Among the various types of conveyors, screw conveyors are particularly effective for moving bulk materials in a controlled and efficient manner, making them indispensable in industries such as agriculture, food processing and manufacturing.

Benefits:

• Versatility: Suitable for handling a wide range of materials, including grains, powders and semi-solids.
• Space Efficiency: Can be installed in tight spaces and configured to fit specific layouts.
• Enclosed System: Reduces dust and contamination, maintaining material integrity.
• Controlled Flow Rate: Allows precise regulation of material movement, essential for batching processes.
• Cost-Effective: Simple design with low maintenance requirements, leading to reduced operational costs.

3. Roller Conveyor Systems

Third in our list of different types of conveyors is the roller conveyor system. A widely used material handling solution comprising a series of cylindrical rollers mounted on a frame. Items placed on these rollers move from one point to another, facilitated by gravity or manual push in unpowered systems, or by motors in powered variants. This design is particularly effective for transporting items with flat, rigid bottoms, such as boxes, pallets and totes.

Benefits:

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, distribution and warehousing.
• Scalability: Easily expandable and reconfigurable to adapt to changing operational needs.
• Efficiency: Reduces manual handling time, increasing throughput and productivity.
• Durability: Constructed with robust materials to handle heavy loads and withstand continuous use.
• Safety: Minimises the risk of workplace injuries by automating the movement of heavy or bulky items.

4. Pneumatic Conveyors Systems

Among the various types of conveyors, a pneumatic conveyor system utilises air pressure or vacuum to transport bulk materials through enclosed pipelines. This method is particularly effective for moving fine powders, granules and other dry bulk substances over varying distances. Pneumatic conveyors operate by creating a pressure differential within a pipeline. A blower or compressor generates airflow, either pushing (positive pressure) or pulling (vacuum) materials through the system.

Benefits:

• Flexibility: Capable of transporting materials over long distances, both horizontally and vertically, with minimal space requirements.
• Enclosed System: Reduces the risk of contamination and dust emissions, maintaining product quality and ensuring a cleaner work environment.
• Minimal Maintenance: With fewer moving parts compared to mechanical conveyors, pneumatic systems often require less maintenance and experience reduced wear and tear.
• Safety: The enclosed nature of the system minimises exposure to hazardous materials, enhancing workplace safety.

5. Overhead Conveyors

An overhead conveyor system is a material handling solution that transports items along an elevated track, utilising the unused vertical space above work areas. This setup is particularly beneficial in manufacturing and assembly lines where floor space is limited. The system comprises a continuous track, often in an I-beam or enclosed configuration, from which carriers or trolleys are suspended. These carriers move along the track, propelled by manual effort or powered mechanisms such as chains or motors. Items are attached to the carriers using hooks, clamps or custom fixtures, allowing for efficient movement through various stages of production or storage.

Benefits:

• Space Optimisation: By utilising overhead space, these systems free up valuable floor area for other operations, enhancing overall facility layout.
• Improved Workflow: Facilitates a seamless flow of materials between workstations, reducing manual handling and increasing productivity.
• Versatility: Capable of handling a wide range of products, including those with irregular shapes or sizes, making them suitable for diverse applications.
• Enhanced Safety: Elevating the transportation of materials reduces the risk of accidents and injuries associated with ground-level conveyors.

6. Telescopic Conveyor Systems

A telescopic conveyor system is a versatile solution within the many types of conveyors, designed to facilitate efficient loading and unloading of goods, particularly in shipping and receiving areas. Unlike fixed conveyor systems, telescopic conveyors offer adjustable length, enabling them to reach directly into vehicles or containers and streamline material handling processes. The system consists of multiple nested sections that extend or retract as needed. When activated, these sections slide out to the required length, allowing the conveyor belt to efficiently transfer goods into trucks, trailers or containers.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Flexibility: Adjustable length allows the conveyor to accommodate various vehicle sizes and dock configurations, making it adaptable to different operational needs.
• Increased Efficiency: By extending directly into transport vehicles, telescopic conveyors significantly improve efficiency.
• Improved Safety: Minimises manual handling of goods, reducing the risk of workplace injuries and ensuring a safer working environment.
• Space Optimisation: When retracted, the conveyor occupies minimal floor space, making it ideal for facilities with limited room.

7. Chain Conveyors 

Chain conveyor systems are robust material handling solutions designed to transport heavy loads through the use of continuous chains. This system is particularly effective for moving items such as pallets, automotive assemblies and industrial containers. The system comprises one or more endless chains that run over sprockets, creating a continuous loop. These chains are powered by motors, propelling them along a predetermined path. Materials are placed directly on the chains or on attached fixtures, allowing for secure and efficient movement through the production process, making them ideal for heavy or bulky items.

Benefits:

• Durability: Chain conveyors are built to withstand heavy loads and harsh operating conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.
• Versatility: They can be customised with various attachments to accommodate different product types and sizes, enhancing their adaptability across industries.
• Consistency: The continuous movement of the chains provides a steady flow of materials, improving overall process efficiency.
• Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts compared to other conveyor types, chain conveyors often require less maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs.

8. Bucket Conveyors

Designed to transport bulk materials vertically or at steep inclines, a bucket conveyor system is a specialised material handling solution that consists of a series of buckets attached to a belt or chain, forming a continuous loop. The buckets scoop up materials from a lower point, elevate them and discharge them at a higher elevation. This system offers a reliable and efficient solution among the several types of conveyors available.

Benefits:

• Space Efficiency: Bucket conveyors utilise vertical space, minimising the system’s footprint and conserving valuable floor area.
• Versatility: Capable of handling a wide range of materials, including grains, minerals and aggregates, making them suitable for various industries.
• Gentle Handling: Designed to transport delicate or fragile materials with minimal degradation, preserving product integrity.
• High Capacity: Engineered to move large volumes of material efficiently, enhancing overall productivity.

Streamline Your Operations with The Right Conveyors by Contacting Our Experts Today!

With so many types of conveyors available, choosing the right system for your workplace is essential to maximise productivity and efficiency. At Coveya, we understand that every workplace is unique, and selecting the right conveyor requires expert insight. Whether you are looking to purchase or hire a conveyor system, our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect solution tailored to your specific needs. Get in touch with a member of our expert team today by calling 0808 501 5127 or emailing support@coveya.co.uk and let us guide you through the process and ensure you choose the ideal conveyor system for your operation