Pallet Conveyors: Which Type Does Your Workplace Need?

Modern conveying systems began during the industrial revolution and these proved to be very useful in moving products and materials in plants and factories. Just like any other equipment, pallet conveyors were designed and created to specifically transport pallets although there are several other types that can handle other items as well like drums and crates.

General Types

Pallet conveyors can come in two types, namely: a roller or a chain. There are also some models that are a combination of a roller and chain. These are basically used to transport pallets, drums, castings and other heavy loads. Both dry and wet or oily loads can be handled by the conveyors. The dimensions usually depend on the specifications of the buyer. The length can be anywhere from 5 to 40 feet while width can be anywhere from 3 to 12 feet.

Construction

The frames of pallet conveyors are typically made of gauge steel channels with gauge steel rollers. The diameters of rollers can differ depending on the expected weight of load so larger ones are preferred for bigger and heavier items. Chains are always heavy duty to withstand long and heavy processes. The size of chains can be anywhere from RC 40 to 80. As for the motor, there are 1/4 horsepower up to 5 horsepower available. 3 phase models are more common but several less powerful ones almost always are single phase. The speed may also be dependent on the motor ranging from 30 to 60 feet per second. Higher speeds are possible with more powerful motors and a more efficient mechanism and design.

More on Chains

There is a chain-driven live roller pallet conveyor has a distinct design wherein the pallet bottom boards are parallel to the direction of movement and there is moderate friction for pallets to be positioned for robotic interface. Most rollers are about 2 to 3 inches in diameter on 3 to 4-inch centers. The frames are heavy duty with motors set either low or high. Although these can handle typical loads found in most industrial plants and factories, there are more powerful and heavy duty designs available as well.

A drag chain pallet conveyor is another setup wherein the bottom boards are perpendicular to the direction of movement. The chain type may vary according to the weight of loads. The wearstrips may be made of heavy duty steel or UHMW depending on the application and method. Special accumulation modules and equipment allow pallets to gather and accumulate without any worries about zero back pressure. Collisions are therefore significantly decreased and efficiency is maximized. Drag chain pallet conveyors are recommended when handling damaged or wooden pallets and irregularly shaped objects.

Choosing a Conveyor

Allow the manufacturer to assess your factory or workplace so that they can help you decide which type of conveyor and accessories are best for your handling and transporting needs. Integrated systems may be designed, engineered and installed by the manufacturer right in your very own workplace for immediate testing. When you purchase pallet conveyors, check the performance of the motor as well as the safety and integrity of all handled pallets and materials. Observe other factors relevant to the movement like drive resistance, gravity and conveyor parts. You should also ask for warranty just in case you experience problems or have troubleshooting needs.