Many manufacturers and distributors relied on human labour before the invention of conveyor belts [1], which risked the safety of workers and products. The use of spinning pulleys and belts systems made it easier to carry out these tasks. Unlike the simple belt systems that were used in the past, the conveyor belt technology is more advanced. Industries choose to use modern belts that have the appropriate capabilities and features. This is the reason you will not find a company that deals with precious stones using a woven metal belt as it cannot handle these delicate products appropriately.
Using a conveyor system is important when handling materials as it helps to move heavy products that could otherwise require forklifts or human labour. These systems come with versatility that helps warehouses and manufacturing plants to move heavy objects with minimal effort while reducing the risk of injury or damage to property at the same time.
So, if employees use appropriately-designed conveyor systems, incidences of injuries will be minimal. These systems also ensure that the workers are kept safe from hazardous materials. Using a conveyor system also helps the industry enjoy a cost-friendly solution in the movement of its materials. It also reduces the need to hire numerous employees since their work can be carried out easily by the devices. Below are some of the commonly used conveyor belt materials and how they are applied.
General-use Belts
These are the most commonly used. The solid belts come in rubber, nylon, neoprene, nitrile or polyester materials. The properties of a belt determine its primary application. For example, in the mining and milling industries, the commonly used belts are made of rubber. These can handle bulky materials that include raw ore. On the other hand, grocery stores use PVC belts while airports use neoprene, rubber or polyester to move luggage [2].
The materials may come in various coatings, delivery arrangements, and thicknesses as per their handling properties. While some come with food rating properties, others can only perform at high temperatures. Other properties found in general-use belts are low or high levels of friction and distinct bulk-handling structures.
Woven Metal Belts
These have interlinking metal chains or wiring that allows air to flow as the product moves along. The main reasons why businesses use woven metal belts is to enable the drying, heating, and cooling food processes in electronics and glass-making industries. Some manufacturers prefer to use pre-fabricated woven belts or custom make them according to their customer's needs.
Filter Belts
With some conveyors, particulates are allowed to fall through rather than go along the entire system. Examples are firms that use filter belts to help in draining excess liquid or filter toxins. Also, companies that treat water use these kinds of belts while carrying out their processes. Metal or synthetic fibre may be used to make the filter belts
Why Conveyor Systems are Important for Business
Regardless of what your industry makes, a belt conveyor can process the tiniest, finest and most delicate material like glass to bigger pieces like machinery parts. In normal circumstances, they can move goods that weigh up to 10,000 tons every hour. These belts can also be designed to move vertically or horizontally in order to fit into any available space. This means that you don't need to move to new premises; a belt can be designed specifically for your industry, based on what you make. They will make the processes swifter and easier.
Although you will need initial capital to have them installed, they provide a substantial ROI in a very short time. They not only help in moving things but also ensure the manufacturing, ordering and delivery processes are seamless and profitable. If you are looking for belt conveyors [3] for your industry, this is a great place to start.