Two popular types of conveyors in material handling and industrial automation are roller conveyors and belted conveyors. While both serve the same purpose of transporting items from one point to another, they differ in design, functionality, and suitability for various applications. This post will delve into the key differences between roller and belted conveyors, their distinct features, advantages, and best uses.
Design and Structure
Roller conveyors consist of a series of cylindrical rollers that are mounted on a frame. These rollers can be either powered or gravity-driven, allowing for smooth and controlled item movement. The spacing between the rollers can be customized based on the size and weight of the products being transported. Roller conveyors are typically used for handling heavier loads and known for their durability and robustness.
Belted conveyors, as the name suggests, employ a continuous belt to transport items along the conveyor path. The belt is typically made of rubber or other materials with high friction properties. Belted conveyors are versatile and can be designed with varying belt widths and configurations to accommodate different product types and sizes. They are often used for transporting lighter loads especially smaller items that wouldn’t be suitable for gapped rollers.
Load Handling Capability
Due to their sturdy construction, roller conveyors excel at handling heavy loads and bulky items. The individual rollers distribute the weight evenly, ensuring efficient movement without compromising stability. Roller conveyors are commonly utilized in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and logistics, where there is a need for robust conveyance of heavy materials.
Belted conveyors are better suited for handling lighter loads and smaller items. The continuous belt allows for a larger surface area of contact with the conveyed goods, preventing slippage and ensuring reliable transportation. These conveyors find applications in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce, where gentle handling of products is crucial.
Versatility and Configuration
While roller conveyors are highly reliable for transporting items with consistent shapes and sizes, they may not be as versatile when it comes to accommodating varying product dimensions. However, they offer flexibility in terms of conveyor length, curves, and inclines, allowing for customized configurations to suit specific operational requirements.
Belted conveyors excel in versatility, as the continuous belt can adapt to different product shapes and sizes. They can handle irregularly shaped items, inclines, declines, and even transport delicate or loose products without causing damage or spillage. The adjustable belt speed also enables precise control over the conveying process, making belted conveyors suitable for a wide range of applications.
Distinct Advantages of Both
Roller conveyors are robust, reliable, and suitable for heavy loads, while belted conveyors offer versatility, gentle handling, and adaptability to different product shapes and sizes. Understanding the key differences can help lead to informed decisions as to your company’s material handling needs. By selecting the right system, you can enhance productivity, streamline operations, and ensure the seamless flow of goods.
Your Next Step
To learn more about Hytrol conveyor solutions, contact a Conveyor Expert.
As an exclusive Hytrol distributor to North and South Carolina, we work alongside your team to create the best conveyor solution for your operations. Our Hytrol partnership offers a variety of training methods for your team including seminars, webinars, and on-site training. We will equip your staff with the knowledge and skills to confidently operate and maintain your material handling systems.
Article Credit: This story was first published on the Hytrol blog. July 28, 2023. Roller Conveyors vs. Belted Conveyors: A Comprehensive Comparison, Author Credit: Robyn Garrett, Modified
