What are the different types of mechanical conveyors?

What are the different types of mechanical conveyors?

There are lots of ways to convey products mechanically, from screws and chains to buckets and belts. Each has its advantages. Here are some of the most common systems and what they’re used for:

• Screw Conveyors – As their name suggests, screw conveyors use an auger-type motion to move materials – oftentimes horizontally or at a slight incline. They’re particularly useful for small spaces and short distances (less than 24 feet) since their connecting bolts tend to be the weak point in this design. Screw conveyors are very good for wet products, those that cake and stick together, and can be used in mixing applications. They’re also ideal for dryer inlet discharges.

• Drag Chain Conveyors – A drag chain conveyor uses a chain and paddle design to move material. They come in 2 basic styles:  en masse and bulk flow. En masse conveyors utilize a low profile paddle in a tall box. It’s good for dry products like grains that can be piled up and still ride well on top of themselves. The en masse design is more likely to be used for dry products on lines without much incline, and long distances.  Bulk flow drags use a taller paddle in a divided box. This design is better for wet products, can handle a steeper inclines, and S-path configurations.

• Bucket Elevators – Bucket elevators are aptly named. They’re used to facilitate big changes in elevation or to get products up high – especially dryer products.

• Vibrating Feeders – While they’re not as common, vibrating feeders do have their advantages. Because they use vibrating trays to advance materials, they’re well suited for products that have a tendency to clump or stick together. They’re also good for products that are sticky and need to cool, as well as coating applications. The vibration keeps them from clumping as they move from coater to cooler.
• Belt Conveyors – Belt conveyors utilize a wide belt over rollers to move material.  It’s perfect for moving a lot of product or covering very long distances. It’s surprisingly gentle for as fast as it can move and can be used to convey almost anything, although sticky products tend to pose maintenance issues.