Do we need belt conveyor or roller conveyor?
This question is often at the heart of the design of a warehouse or distribution center. And as warehouses are the heartbeat of any supply chain, the choice of conveyor systems within these facilities can significantly impact operational efficiency.
Among the most commonly used conveyor types are belt conveyors and roller conveyors. Both have their unique strengths and applications, making them preferable for specific warehouse setups and operations. Of course, there are many variations of each, and detailing these subtypes could fill two more blog posts. But in this post, we’ll simply look at instances when a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor is the right choice for the intended use.
Belt Conveyors: Enhancing Versatility and Efficiency
Belt-over conveyors are known for their versatility and suitability for various types of materials. They use continuous belts to convey products, making them ideal for moving irregularly shaped or smaller items. Here are scenarios where belt conveyors typically are your best option:
Handling for Small or Irregularly Shaped Items
Belt conveyors are highly effective when it comes to transporting smaller, irregularly shaped, or soft items like bags, envelopes, and small packages. The smooth surface of the belt minimizes the risk of damage during transit.
Ascending or Descending Movement
Belt conveyors can handle vertical movement, making them a preferred choice for inclined or declined transportation of materials within the warehouse.
Long-Distance Transportation
When you need to move materials over long distances, belt conveyors are a reliable option. They can efficiently transport goods from one end of the warehouse to another without frequent transfers.
Integration with Automated Sorting Systems
Integration with automated sorting systems is seamless with belt conveyors. They facilitate efficient sorting, routing, and diverting of items based on predefined parameters.
Roller Conveyors: Streamlining Movement of Bulk and Heavy Items
Powered roller conveyors use a series of rollers to move materials instead of a continuous belt. They are best suited for bulk or heavier items and offer their own distinct advantages:
Handling of Heavy Loads
Roller conveyors are robust and can convey heavy pallets, drums, or large boxes effectively. The rollers are designed to withstand the weight and distribute it evenly.
Accumulation and Queuing
Roller conveyors are excellent for product accumulation and queuing, especially in cases where you need to create space between items or accumulate them for a specific operation.
Low-Friction Movement
The design of roller conveyors minimizes friction, ensuring a smooth and efficient movement of items – particularly heavier loads – within the warehouse.
A Cost-Effective Solution for Heavy Loads
In terms of cost-effectiveness, roller conveyors are a preferred choice for handling those heavier items due to their sturdy construction and durability.
The Next Step
The decision to use either a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor ultimately depends on your specific warehouse needs and the types of products you handle. For warehouses dealing with a variety of products, a combination of both conveyor types might be the most effective solution.
Understanding the characteristics and benefits of each type will empower you to make an informed decision … Let AEC assist you with a well-thought-out design and integration of these conveyors based on your warehouse’s requirements to optimize your operations and enhance overall efficiency within your facility. We offer project analysis and management, design, engineering, controls, installation, down to final walk-through and follow-up.
Contact us today for consultation from our systems expert.
