Ten Things to Consider When Buying

Ten Things to Consider When Buying Your Next Conveyor System

Shopping for anew conveyor system can be a daunting task: Should you stick with the same fixed system you’ve had for the past 10 years, or is it time to upgrade to a more flexible modular system? The following checklist can help you determine what type of system is most suitable for your light- or medium-duty applications:

1.Portability

First, determine whether or not the conveyor will be needed for more than one process or at more than one location. Fixed metal conveyors are heavy and not easily moved. Modular conveyors are lightweight and can be rolled from one plant to another or from one line to another. If you require quick access to machinery for servicing or changeovers, modular conveyors can be easily moved out of the way.

2   Ease of Repair

Mishaps can shut down a production line for a long period of time. Jammed drives and damaged belts and accessories can be time-consuming to replace. Look for conveyor systems that can be repaired quickly and easily without specialized labor. Also consider conveyor belt design. If belts constructed of interlocking links are damaged, the damaged sections can be replaced within hours instead of days or weeks.

3   Access to Replacement Parts

Timely access to replacement parts is crucial for production uptime. Choose a supplier that has replacement units and components on hand and can deliver them within a few days or overnight if needed. Or choose a system that allows you to stock standardized replacement modules or accessories.

4  Flexibility

If you need to retool a production line quickly to meet deadlines, make surethat your conveyor system can be easily reconfigured. A modular system
with standardized modules in a range of sizes and shapes provides agility. Using conveyor modules to customize conveyor lines may also enable users to finetune product lines to fit confined cell spaces.

5  Ease of Maintenance

Maintenance and uptime can affect productivity. Determine what type of
maintenance your new system will need. Most standard conveyors require lubrication, either due to continuous usage or after cleanups with water. Consider a self-lubricating system. Conveyor systems constructed of plastic can be easier to clean than metal systems. Plastic can be cleaned with water or mild soap without causing rust. Belting on traditional conveyors, such as PVC belting, can be difficult and time-consuming to install and service. It may also require frequent alignment.

6  Cleanroom Compatibility

Do you need a conveyor that meets cleanroom standards? Most standard conveyors have problems meeting these standards due to the lubricants used on their rollers or dust emitting from variable-speed motors using brushes. Choose a system that uses brushless, variable-speed motors and selflubricating, moving conveyor parts.

7  Belting Options

Choose a vendor that offers a wide range of belt styles and widths. Self-
tracking belts are available in acetyl, polyethylene, and nylon, providing good traction, wear, performance, and service. A self-tracking drive system allows many belts to run in the same drive path off the same drive. This enables users to change belts as needed or add or subtract belt drive flights at any time.

8  Configuration Options

Conveyor systems should go wherever you need them to go. Make sure your new system includes configuration options like turns, inclines/declines,and corresponding flights or lifts. Modular systems should offer an array of accessories and specialized application modules that integrate with other modules to provide configuration latitude, dependable performance, and cost savings.

9   Warranty Coverage

Check that your new system has comprehensive warranty coverage. Many conventional or custom-fabricated conveyors have a limited warranty period. Although this type of warranty can save on purchase price, it is usually a dangerous gamble, especially when an expired warranty affects service response. Purchase a conveyor system that carries a five-year warranty on materials and workmanship as well as on the motor and other electric components. Also consider the warranty on belts. PVC belts, such as those used on many standard fixed conveyors, need to be replaced every 18 months.

10  Cost and Method of Installation

The cost of installing your conveyor and related items will vary
according to the type of system, accessories, and integration
requirements. Fixed metal conveyors may require expensive,

specialized engineering as well as costly, time-consuming installation techniques, such as welding. Modular systems can offer robust features while eliminating
special engineering and installation requirements.

If you are still unsure which system will serve you best, consult an expert. Most manufacturers have engineers and fabricators who have direct experience with conveyors as well as other material-handling systems.

ZM Automation 

Zhengzhou, Henan

http://www.zzxdae.com