Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Key Differences Between Chain Driven Live Roller (CDLR) and Belt Driven Live Roller (BDLR) Conveyors
In high-throughput manufacturing and distribution environments, conveyor systems do more than move product – they protect uptime, improve worker safety, and maximize ROI. Choosing the wrong type of conveyor can lead to costly downtime, excessive maintenance, or even product damage.
Two of the most widely used types of conveyors are Chain Driven Live Roller (CDLR) and Belt Driven Live Roller (BDLR) conveyors. Each offer distinct advantages depending on the load, environment, and application. Understanding the difference between chain driven and belt driven conveyors is key to selecting the right system for your facility’s throughput, space, and durability requirements.
This guide walks you through how each conveyor type serves your operation.
- What is a Chain Driven Live Roller Conveyor (CDLR)?
- What is a Belt Driven Live Roller Conveyor (BDLR)?
- CDLR vs. BDLR Comparison (Graphic)
- Is CDLR better than BDLR for heavy loads?
- Which conveyor is more cost-effective?
- Which conveyor type is easier to maintain?
- When should you use a Chain-Driven Conveyor?
- When should you use a Belt-Driven Conveyor?
- How do you choose between CDLR and BDLR?
- Real-World Example: When CDLR Is the right choice.
- CDLR vs BDLR FAQs
What is a Chain Driven Live Roller Conveyor?
A Chain Driven Live Roller (CDLR) conveyor uses chains to power the rollers directly. The rollers are fitted with sprockets that are connected by a continuous loop chain, driven by a motor. This creates a rugged system designed to move heavy loads, pallets, and other tough items across the floor.
Key Characteristics of CDLR Conveyors
- Ideal for harsh environments and heavy-duty applications.
- Supports start-stop applications with ease.
- Effective for pallets, drums, and other non-uniform or rigid loads.
How CDLR Conveyors Work
The drive motor turns a drive shaft, which is connected to the rollers via chains and sprockets. Each roller turns at a synchronized speed, delivering consistent movement for heavy items. Because the drive mechanism is external, CDLR conveyors are highly durable and easy to service in rugged environments.
What is a Belt Driven Live Roller Conveyor?
A Belt Driven Live Roller (BDLR) conveyor uses a motor-driven belt that runs underneath the rollers. The belt makes contact with the rollers, transferring motion to move the items placed on top.
Key Characteristics of BDLR Conveyors
- Designed for handling lighter loads like boxes, totes, and packages.
- Offers quieter operation and better speed control.
- Suitable for accumulation and incline/decline applications.
How BDLR Conveyors Work
A continuous belt underneath the rollers is powered by a motor. The friction between the belt and the rollers causes the rollers to spin, which moves the load. BDLR systems are commonly used in distribution centers, e-commerce warehouses, and manufacturing lines that handle smaller products.
CDLR vs. BDLR Comparison
Choosing between Chain-Driven Live Roller (CDLR) and Belt-Driven Live Roller (BDLR) conveyors comes down to your load requirements, environment, and operational priorities. Each has clear strengths—and tradeoffs—that can impact everything from noise levels to maintenance and accumulation. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you determine which solution best fits your facility’s needs:
Is CDLR Better Than BDLR for Heavy Loads?
In a word, yes. CDLR conveyors are specifically designed to handle heavy-duty loads with consistent speed and torque. If your application involves moving pallets, drums, or containers over 1,000 lbs, a CDLR system is your best option.
CDLR conveyors excel in:
- Warehouses moving palletized goods
- Automotive parts manufacturing
- Food and beverage packaging
- Outdoor or dirty environments like foundries or recycling plants
Which Conveyor is More Cost-Effective?
It depends on the application. While CDLR systems are typically more expensive due to their heavy-duty components, they provide excellent ROI in environments where durability and load capacity are critical. On the other hand, BDLR systems are more cost-effective for light to medium loads and offer better energy efficiency.
Which Conveyor Type is Easier to Maintain?
BDLR systems typically require less maintenance due to the absence of chains and sprockets. The belt may need to be replaced over time, but the system is generally cleaner and easier to service. CDLR systems, while durable, require periodic chain tensioning, lubrication, and alignment checks.
When Should You Use a Chain Driven Conveyor?
Consider using a Chain Driven Live Roller Conveyor when:
- Your products exceed 500 lbs.
- Loads are palletized, rigid, or non-uniform.
- You operate in an industrial environment with dirt, oil, or debris.
- High torque and precise drive synchronization are needed.
CDLR conveyors are also preferred for:
- Forklift interfacing (loads being placed or removed)
- Integration with turntables or chain transfers
When Should You Use a Belt Driven Conveyor?
Choose a Belt Driven Live Roller Conveyor when:
- You’re transporting cartons, boxes, or plastic totes.
- Noise reduction is important.
- Variable speed and accumulation zones are needed.
- The system will include curves or incline/decline paths.
BDLR systems are perfect for:
- Order fulfillment
- E-commerce distribution centers
- Assembly or packaging lines with variable speeds
How Do You Choose Between CDLR and BDLR?
If your application involves high-weight loads and rugged conditions, CDLR is the right choice. If you’re moving lighter packages in a cleaner environment and require accumulation or speed control, BDLR offers better flexibility and efficiency.
The choice between chain driven vs. belt driven live roller conveyors depends on:
- Product weight and dimensions
- Required speed and throughput
- Environmental conditions
- Accumulation needs
- Budget and maintenance capacity
Real-World Example: When CDLR Is the Right Choice
Discover how our CDLR conveyor solution streamlined pallet flow and enhanced safety.
In a recent project, AEC helped a major packaging provider improve pallet flow at the end of multiple stretch wrappers. The solution included a Hytrol 25-CRR chain driven live roller conveyor with a 25-CRRCT 45-degree curve to redirect pallet discharge away from busy forklift aisles. This setup reduced congestion, improved safety, and ensured smoother handling of heavy pallet loads.
A belt driven live roller (BDLR) system wouldn’t have been suitable here—BDLRs are better for lighter items like cartons or totes. In heavy-duty environments with full pallets and demanding throughput, CDLR is the clear choice for performance and durability.
Final Thoughts on CDLR and BDLR Conveyors: Which Fits Your Needs?
Understanding the difference between Chain Driven and Belt Driven Live Roller conveyors is crucial when designing an efficient material handling system. Each conveyor has unique strengths—and choosing the right one depends on your specific load requirements, environment, and operational goals.
At AEC, we specialize in helping businesses identify the best conveyor solution to increase throughput, reduce downtime, and maximize ROI.
Contact a conveyor specialist today. We’re ready to help you find the perfect solution to keep your operations running smoothly and efficiently.
CDLR vs BLDR FAQs
CDLR is better suited for heavy loads like pallets, drums, and industrial containers.
CDLR requires regular chain lubrication and tensioning, while BDLR has simpler belt replacement and less mess overall.
Yes, BDLR systems can be designed to handle gentle inclines and curves, depending on the load and application.
If you need to temporarily hold product without pressure buildup, or stage items for picking or packing, accumulation zones are essential.
CDLR systems are louder due to the chain and sprockets; BDLR systems run more quietly.
Yes, both CDLR and BDLR systems can be integrated with robotic systems or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for seamless automation.
Dirty, dusty, or outdoor environments favor rugged CDLR systems; cleaner, controlled environments are ideal for BDLR.
Lead times vary, but most systems take 6–12 weeks from order to installation, depending on customization.
Written by AEC Director of Customer Engagement, Josh Hamrick.
