Belt conveyors are used in applications where loads need more support than rollers can give them, usually for things like cartons with irregular bottoms, bags, components and similar loads. They’re sometimes used for small parts, produce or components. The type of belt you specify will usually tie directly to the application, load and operational environment. Here are some questions to ask when you are specifying a conveyor belt.
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
In this installment of Cisco-Eagle’s Shoptalk series, Cameron explains how to select the proper skatewheel for your flexible conveyor. You can use flexible conveyors at docks, shipping areas, packing departments and other places where temporary, mobile conveying is needed. You can extend, retract and roll them to fit into spaces where fixed conveyors aren’t practical.
Tags: Shoptalk
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Overhead conveyors are an efficient way to transport products on an assembly line or in a distribution facility. For the right load in the right situation, they’re the most economical and efficient way to convey products. What are some of the characteristics of a good overhead load?
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Belt and roller-powered conveyors are specified for a variety of reasons within a given conveyor system. The reasons almost always come down to load characteristics and functionality. Both can be used in transportation, sortation, and accumulation applications. This article delves into the differences and the specific advantages each conveyor type offers.
Tags: Conveyor
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Conveyors–as we’ve discussed–have two major costs:
When you invest in capital equipment, you should be as focused on operational costs as purchase price. Part of that is extending the life of your conveyor system. How can you make sure you get the most out of your conveyors?
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Conveyor systems are usually built for durability and an extended working life. With consideration for certain factors like the type of product and usage rates, conveyors can run for years and generate excellent return-on-investment. However, ROI diminishes and the conveyor starts costing more money than it’s worth if it’s extended too long. Systems can be the lifeblood of warehouse operations, so relying on an old one can begin to cost more than replacing it.
There are signs to look for when you suspect your system is affecting your overall efficiency and bottom line.
Tags: Sustainability
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Conveyors that are designed, tested and installed the right way are safe. They don’t cause a disproportionate amount of injuries and reduce ergonomic strains that can cause longer-term musculoskeletal injuries. Like any other machinery, however, conveyors come with hazards. A conveyor can be dangerous if people are allowed to touch certain moving parts. It’s best to always cover and guard those components.
Tags: Safety & Ergonomics, conveyor safety
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Conveyors are essential for manufacturing operations, but in some areas where they are exposed to dust, airborne debris, moisture or chemicals, there may be issues with their mechanical components. These environmental factors impact performance, equipment lifespan, maintenance burdens and safety, but can be dealt with if the conveyor is properly designed, used and maintained. Let’s dive into these issues.
Tags: Manufacturing, ergonomics
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
The extensive conveyor lines that snake through many distribution facilities allow operations to transport, buffer and direct loads in a way that takes the best possible advantage of space. These conveyor systems are essentially the core around which a lean, efficient material handling operation is built, but they also create barriers to people moving around the facility since they can block the flow of foot traffic.
Tags: Shoptalk
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Sorting, pushing and diverting products as they are transported on a conveyor system is one of the best ways to reduce costs, improve fill rates, eliminate errors and increase throughput — and there are multiple ways to go about it. Some systems are downright plodding–pushing only a few loads per minute–while others are dizzyingly fast, pushing out hundreds of diverts per minute. This post will profile some of the lower to medium speed options at your disposal.
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
