Material Handling: Considerations for Industrial Conveyor Belt Selection

Conveyor belt systems are essential elements in material handling operations in industrial and commercial setups. These structures ensure that there is an efficient transfer of items between stations, increasing productivity. Also, the use of conveyor belts reduces the risk of injuries which occur when workers handle heavy materials in the workplace. If you are interested in acquiring a quality conveyor belt system for your business, here are the most important factors to consider before your purchase:

Process Materials

You should evaluate the specific details of the materials to be handled when looking to buy a belt conveyor system. In simple terms, conveyors are not built as equipment with equal capabilities. Therefore, you must find a material handling product which matches the demands of your operations. Check the load-bearing capacity of your preferred conveyor belts and compare with the weight of the items which you plan to handle. You should also consider the size of the materials to be conveyed. A narrow belt will expose the loads to damage, and the system will be vulnerable to accelerated damage. On the other hand, choosing broad belts when the materials are small is cost-inefficient. 

Operating Environment

If your belt conveyor is intended for indoor operation in average conditions, you can acquire a system without special features. For example, a polyurethane belt can be used in room temperature applications without exposure to adverse environments. However, some industrial processes will require unique belting with the ability to withstand extreme conditions. For instance, if you are planning on installing the equipment in high-temperature spaces, you should choose metal belts. If there are stringent cleaning requirements, ensure that the material can withstand moisture exposure. Also, you should consider resistance to oil and chemicals if the operation presents such concerns. 

Belt Style

There are different belt styles to consider when purchasing a conveyor system. The right style will depend on your specific application and industry. If you are looking for general purpose equipment, you should choose a flat belt with a stable surface for optimal material support. If incline or decline is necessary for your operation, a cleated belt is more appropriate. Modular belts have pre-engineered sections and components which can be adapted for different applications. Also, if you would like a system which can handle tight radii and turns, you should consider choosing a flexible chain belt. There are other belt styles suited for specialised applications. So, you should discuss all your options with a turnkey engineering solutions provider before choosing an ideal belt conveyor.


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