Pallet Handling Conveyor Configuration

Specifying the right pallet handling conveyor

When dealing with a pallet load application, two key questions should be asked before specifying a conveyor type:

1. How is the conveying surface (the bottom of your pallet deck) designed?

2. What will be the maximum load weight?

Load capacity usually can be handled by simply selecting a conveyor with structural and drive capacity. The pallet bottom is another matter entirely. There are many types of pallets and no such thing as a standard pallet. Pay careful attention to the pallet bottom deck. Will the pallet’s “runners” be parallel or perpendicular to the conveyor rollers?

Runners perpendicular are always the best option. You should avoid runners parallel. If runners are in both direction, the pallet could be used bi-directionally, ie, placed on the conveyor in either direction.

If your pallet has parallel runners
	A pallet being conveyed with runners parallel can cause the pallet to bump and vibrate, which is probably not good for the stability of the conveyed product.
Runners perpendicular
	Runners perpendicular are always best. If the runners are in both directions, you can use the pallet bi-directionally.
If runners parallel are your only option...
	Sometimes, runners parallel is the only option available. In this case, it’s necessary to place rollers on close centers to minimize the bumping and vibration issues and smooth the ride. Two rollers under a slat is the absolute minimum.
Utilizing Drag Chain Conveyors
	A better method of conveying pallets with parallel runners is through use of a Drag Chain conveyor. We can help you choose the right model.

Some standardization occurs in the pallet manufacturing industry, and further standardization is coming. However, many pallet types are available and you should be aware of the type (or types) of pallets being used in your application. You aren’t always in control of this, since in some operations, vendors or suppliers can send in many different kinds of pallets, but the more knowledge you have, the better.

You can also test your pallets for success. Cisco-Eagle can provide no-cost application tests for pallets and products through Hytrol Conveyor Company. For more information, contact us.