Roller Conveyor
Roller conveyor is a type of material handling equipment used in transportation, warehouse and distribution centers. It uses rollers to move items from point A to point B, eliminating the need for manual labor. Roller conveyor systems are relatively easy to use and have a wide range of applications that make them an ideal choice in many material handling operations.
To understand roller conveyor, it is helpful to review the different types available. There are different types of roller conveyor systems, including gravity, belt, chain, and powered (also known as live) roller systems. Gravity roller conveyors are among the most popular types, as they are versatile and economical, effectively allowing the movement of most materials by simply relying on the force of gravity. Belt roller conveyors are ideal for more demanding applications and can be used to move material of varying weights and with different operating speeds. Chain roller conveyors are the most suitable for heavy loads, with adjustable speeds and fixtures to ensure the safe and efficient movement of large and heavy items. Finally, powered roller conveyors are used for powered transport of products, eliminating the need for operators to manually push the items.
Roller conveyor systems are typically characterized by how the rollers are powered. Roller conveyors can be driven, either by an electric motor or manual force via a belt, chain or wheel drive system. Driven roller conveyors are typically used for more precise applications, such as when precise lines must be followed, or when the load speed must be accurately controlled. Unpowered roller conveyors, better known as gravity conveyors, are used when precise control isn’t required, and are ideal for moving predictably staggered products.
Aside from the actual design of the conveyor system, the materials used to construct them are equally important, ranging from plastics, metals, and composites. Plastic conveyors are often popular because they are lightweight and often have non-marking designs. Metal conveyors tend to be more durable, allowing them to endure harsher environments, such as those with extreme temperatures and heavy items. Lastly, composite conveyors are designed to take advantage of the best features of both plastics and metals for reliable operation and an optimal lifespan.
Roller conveyor systems can be used for a variety of purposes, from transporting materials to packaging, picking, and sorting. For example, roller conveyors are used in warehouses to expedite the sorting of items with a goal of reducing labor costs and improving efficiency. Furthermore, businesses that require tedious packaging tasks employ roller conveyors to create an automated line, translating into higher output and less time spent packaging items.
In conclusion, roller conveyors offer several distinct advantages, such as their quick and simple set up, cost effectiveness and versatility. They are one of the most popular types of conveyor systems on the market, and as such, can be found in a variety of industries. With their capacity for easy transport, durable materials, and efficient design, roller conveyors are sure to remain a key component of material handling for years to come.
