How to Choose the Right Conveyor System for your Warehouse
Over time, conveyor systems be more than a means to move or transport products. It is now a vital part of material handling systems. Conveyor systems play a significant role in warehouse operations. Select the right one to suit your needs.
Need to find out the right conveyor system for your warehouse? Here are some of the points that you need to consider.
Product specifications
You need to consider the product specifications when choosing a conveyor system. You have to determine your product’s height, length, width as well as its height. These factors will affect many different aspects of the selection process. For example, if you will use a roller conveyor. The product weight will determine the roller gauge requirements.
Aside from the dimension, you also have to consider the product type. Warehouse facilities cater to different types of product. And there are specific conveyor systems designed to handle every product type. There is no one-size-fits-all conveyor system. Consider your product type when choosing a conveyor to transport your products.
Your existing facilities are relevant when it comes to the design of your conveyor. Take a look at your warehouse layout and identify the spots where a conveyor may need to turn, stop, fall or elevate. This step is crucial in a conveyor that will work in favor of your available warehouse space. An excellent design benefits operations in the process areas, loading and unloading areas.
Long term needs
When buying a conveyor system, it is important that you think beyond your immediate needs. You must also consider the long term needs of your facility. You need to consider getting a conveyor system you can use when your company needs to expand and grow. You also have to think about the best conveyor to use when you start transporting heavier loads or items.
Accumulation requirements
Accumulation requirements are another vital point to consider when selecting conveyors. In an industry that involves production, accumulation is a common requirement. It is also critical in making sure downtime is reduced in cases when a piece of equipment bogs down. Don’t forget to take product information into account when reviewing your accumulation needs.
Washdown requirements
Washdown requirements also create a significant impact on your conveyor selection. In most warehouse facilities, a washdown rated conveyor is not required. What they use instead is an aluminum bolted construction conveyor or a mild steel. When it comes to pharmaceutical and dairy applications, washdown ratings are required. So, stainless steel conveyors should be used.
Environmental conditions
When selecting a conveyor system, one factor most people overlook is environmental conditions. It is essential you know the operating environment where the conveyor will be placed. This is how you can protect your conveyor from anything that may result in its malfunction.
Product transfer requirements
The transfer of product to and from the conveyor is one of the most critical areas of a conveyor system. There are various styles used in product transfers including: dead plates, gravity rollers, side to side transfers, powered transfers and so on. Depending on the size of your product, you should be able to determine the type of transfer needed.
Choosing the right conveyor system is vital to ensure warehouse efficiency and safety gains. However, selecting the right one is not easy. It requires careful planning and consideration of these details to make the most of your investment. In need of a new conveyor for your warehouse? Please visit Used Warehouse Equipment.
