Automation and Motion Control Blog

How to Choose the Correct Conveyor?

Written by Mark Howe | Jan 9, 2012 6:35:00 AM

You have an application that requires you to move product from point a to point b. The most logical method is to use a conveyor. Before you get overwhelmed by the different types of conveyors, you need to step through the application and answer a few simple questions.

What is the product being conveyed? Describe it completely!

 

What type of environment will the conveyor be placed in?

The environment plays a huge factor in the decision-making process. Is it an industrial application, clean room application or a wash-down/sanitary application? Environment may dictate the conveyor choice due the material of the conveyor..

Time for an example: Ready-To-Eat Food assembly line.

Anything with non-packaged food should be considered a sanitary application. How does this affect the choice? Conveyor Material Choice. The conveyor needs to be robust, easy to clean, and durable. Stainless steel and special plastics are used to accomplish this.

How is the product presented to and discharged from the conveyor?

The goal is to minimize product loss at the transfer points.

How will it be integrated to the current process/machine?

Choosing the wrong conveyor is an expense mistake. Before buying the conveyor, you need to know how it will be integrated in the current process or added to the machine. Here is a brief list of key factors that will help you integrate it.

  • Overall Dimensions
  • Motor Location
  • Speed
  • Voltage
  • Controls

Use this small list of helpful questions to guide you in the decision-making process. If you need additional assistance or have any questions, please contact us and we will be glad to help you find the right conveyor for your application.