An Introduction To Roller Conveyors

A roller conveyor is a perfect solution for simplifying transportation, accumulating and distributing goods between different lines in a warehouse. A Roller conveyor system is designed to transport utility cost-effectively and flexibly. Whether a food outlet, packaging warehouse, goods transportation company or any other conveying station, the roller conveyor system has proved its effectiveness.

But if you plan to install a roller conveyor in your warehouse or company, you need to learn more about them. Knowing roller conveyors in detail will help you choose the best conveyor system.

Therefore, this article outlines the five things you should know about roller conveyors.

What is a roller conveyor?

It is a series of rollers installed within a frame on which objects can be moved either manually, by gravity, or by power.

Roller Conveyors can be used to move materials, including boxes, cardboard boxes, crates, pallets, plastic totes, trays, etc. Moreover, roller conveyors are configured to work with various ancillary equipment, including bends, gates and turntables.

Warehouse and manufacturing facilities are the places where roller conveyors are primarily used. Using a roller conveyor adds versatility to the transfer, diverters and stops that can be used as a part of the conveyor or automation system.

Roller conveyors are primarily available in three forms - mild steel, galvanized plastic or stainless steel.

What are the various types of roller conveyors?

You generally find five types of roller conveyors.

Belt-driven roller conveyor

The belt conveyor runs over rollers or slider beds and is motor powered. The belt is always in direct contact with the product. They offer a higher degree of control and provide better support for the product in incline and decline processes. Bags, fragile products, and lighter cartons are usually conveyed on belts.

Gravity roller conveyor

A gravity conveyor uses gravity force to move a load on the rollers. It is one of the simplest and most inexpensive materials handling systems. Gravity roller conveyors allow the product to roll along the upper surface, and when mounted on a slight decline, the load begins to move across the rollers. They are widely used in warehouses, production facilities or distribution centres.

Chain-driven conveyor

It uses an endless chain to transmit power and move material through the production lines. The chain runs over sprockets at either end of the production line. Chain-driven conveyors are generally used to move material up to 90 meters and typically under 30 meters.

Line shaft roller conveyor

Line Shaft Conveyor transmits driving force to the rollers using a shaft. The line shaft runs parallel to the conveyor run inside the conveyor frame. It uses elastic-polymer bands to transfer power from the line shaft to conveyor rollers. These conveyors are suitable for moving light loads up to 50 kg, such as cardboard and tote boxes.

Zero pressure roller conveyor

It offers control, reliability and automation of a start or stop action and is installed within the existing system.

Zero pressure roller conveyor keeps two products at a safe distance while conveying, thus reducing damage to fragile items during accumulation. It holds products when needed, accumulating in sections while products are moved down the line.

Which industries use roller conveyors?

Roller conveyors are widely used in numerous industries due to their capacity and easy usage. But it is predominantly used in the logistics and manufacturing industry.

Other industries include

• Food Handling
• Packaging
• Mail delivery services
• Baggage handling
• Steelmaking

What are the benefits of using roller conveyors?

The following are the benefits of using roller conveyors:

• Due to their highly versatile design, they can be used in nearly any situation, including routes, loads, slopes etc.
• Roller Conveyors are a speedy and safe load transportation system.
• They reduce the risk of fragile goods being damaged.
• Can withstand heavy-duty loads.
• Roller Conveyors are a highly reliable and long-lasting solution.
• Easy maintenance and operation.

How to maintain your roller conveyors?

Knowing when and how to maintain your company’s roller conveyors ensures the system retains its quality and keeps functioning for a long time. Regular maintenance saves your time, money, energy and roller conveyors. It also ensures you move products on a reliable conveyor.

Here are some vital tips you should follow to keep your roller conveyor maintained:

• Often lubricate the drive screw and nuts with oil.
• Always oil the roller bearings and drive chain after using the roller conveyor system.
• Clean conveyor rollers regularly.
• Wipe down any residue from its surface to keep it clean and avoid blockages.
• Inspect the roller frequently to check for any damage or wear and tear.

Conclusion

When choosing a roller conveyor, you must consider the specific needs of your business. It would be best to consider the type of material you will transport, its weight, transportation distance and available space to set up the conveyor system. Select the roller conveyor that best suits your requirements.

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