The industrial conveyor system is an important component of any manufacturing or production facility. It helps to move materials and products smoothly and efficiently through the production process. There are many different types of conveyor systems available, each with its own benefits. When selecting an industrial conveyor system for your facility, it is important to consider the type of products you will be conveying, the desired throughput rate, and the required safety features. Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the system running smoothly and avoid problems. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use industrial conveyor systems for a smooth production process.
An industrial conveyor system is a type of material handling equipment that is used to move heavy or bulky items from one place to another. There are many different types of industrial conveyor systems, each with its own set of features and benefits. The most common types of industrial conveyors are:
- Belt conveyors: Belt conveyors are the most commonly used type of industrial conveyor system. They consist of a continuous belt that is looped around rollers or pulleys, and can be used to move heavy or bulky items from one point to another. Belt conveyors are available in a variety of sizes and can be customized to meet the specific needs of your application.
- Chain conveyors: Chain conveyors are similar to belt conveyors, but instead of using a belt, they use chains to move heavy or bulky items from one point to another. Chain conveyors are often used for moving large or awkwardly shaped items that would be difficult to move with a belt conveyor.
- Roller conveyors: Roller conveyors are another type of common industrial conveyor system. They consist of a series of rollers that are used to move items along a flat surface. Roller conveyors can be used for both light and heavy duty applications, and can be customized with different roller sizes and spacing to meet the needs of your application.
Benefits of an Industrial Conveyor System for the Production Process.
Industrial conveying systems offer many benefits over manual material handling methods such as these:
- Increased Productivity – Automating the movement of materials with an industrial conveying system can help increase productivity by reducing or eliminating the need for manual labor in the production process. This can free up employees to perform other tasks, resulting in increased efficiency and output.
- Reduced Risk of Injury – Manual material handling is one of the leading causes of workplace injuries, particularly musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain. Automating material handling with an industrial conveying system can help reduce the risk of these injuries by eliminating the need for employees to lift, carry, or otherwise handle heavy or awkward objects manually.
- Improved Quality – Automating the movement of materials with an industrial conveying system can also help improve product quality by reducing potential damage during handling and transportation. Additionally, conveying systems can be equipped with sensors and other components to help detect and correct potential quality issues before they become problems.
- Increased Safety – In addition to reducing the risk of workplace injuries, industrial conveying systems can also help improve overall safety in the workplace by automating tasks that might otherwise be dangerous for employees to perform manually. For example, automated conveyor systems can help reduce the risks associated with working with hazardous materials or operating machinery.
- Reduced Costs – Automating material handling with an industrial conveying system can also help save money by reducing or eliminating the need for manual labor, as well as reducing potential damage to materials during handling. Additionally, conveying systems can often be designed and configured to optimize space utilization, which can lead to significant savings on facility costs such as rent or utilities.
Design Considerations for Industrial Conveyor Systems.
Implementing Safety Features in Industrial Conveyors. Following Industry Standards and Regulations.
When designing an industrial conveyor system, there are several key considerations to keep in mind in order to ensure smooth operation and seamless integration with the rest of your production process.
In Subsection 2.1, we will discuss how to select the right type of conveyor system for your needs, taking into account factors such as load type and weight, transfer distance, line speed, and elevation change.
In Subsection 2.2, we will cover some important safety considerations to keep in mind when designing and installing an industrial conveyor system, including guarding moving parts, implementing emergency stop buttons or switches, and providing adequate ventilation around the system.
Finally, in Subsection 2.3 we will touch on the importance of following industry standards and regulations when designing and installing an industrial conveyor system, such as those set by the Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA).
Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Industrial Conveyor Systems.
As with any machine, regular maintenance is essential to keeping an industrial conveyor system running smoothly. There are a few key tasks that should be performed on a regular basis to ensure optimal performance:
- Inspect the system regularly for any signs of wear or damage. This includes checking all components such as the rollers, bearings, belts, and pulleys.
- Clean the conveyor belt regularly. A build-up of dirt and debris can cause the belt to slip or malfunction.
- Lubricate bearings and other moving parts as needed. This will help reduce friction and prevent component failure.
- Tighten any loose bolts or screws. This helps prevent equipment vibration and premature wear.
Troubleshooting Common Problems.
There are a few common problems that can occur with industrial conveyor systems:
- Belt tracking issues: If the conveyor belt is not tracking properly, it can cause disruptions in production. To fix this issue, check that all rollers are aligned correctly and adjust them if necessary. Also, make sure that there is no build-up of debris on the belt itself which could be causing it to drift off course.
- Belt slippage: If the conveyor belt slips during operation, it can cause products to fall off or become damaged. To prevent this from happening, make sure that the tension on the belt is correct and that all pulleys are properly aligned. In addition, keep the belt clean and free of debris which could cause it to slip.
- Component failure: If individual components such as rollers or bearings start to fail, it can cause disruptions in production as well as damage to products being conveyed. To prevent this from happening, perform regular maintenance on all components and replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your industrial conveyor system running smoothly and avoid disruptions in production.
Conclusion
The right industrial conveyor system can make a big difference in the efficiency and productivity of your production process. By understanding the different types of conveyors available and the benefits they offer, you can select the best system for your needs. Implementing safety features and following industry standards are also important considerations. With proper maintenance, an industrial conveyor system can provide years of trouble-free operation.
About GTA General Contractors Ltd.
GTA General Contractors has been a leading general construction company in the Toronto/Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and throughout Ontario for more than 32 years, and we are able to design, manage, and build your project from start to finish. GTA General Contractors is a full-service construction and commercial development company that also provides consultancy services, construction management, design/build services, general contracting, project management, and more.
