HDPE and Stainless Steel Power Conveyor Construction from LPS
Choosing the correct power conveyor system may seem like a simple task next to all of the options available for filling machine, capping machines and other packaging equipment. After all, the conveyor system just moves the bottles from one machine to the next, how many different options can there be? The answer may surprise some of those new to packaging products or the packaging industry itself. Choosing the correct conveyor type and material for a project can save time and trouble in the future, and understanding the differences between conveyors can help to ensure the correct choice is made by each packager for their individual project.
Power Conveyor Design
The power conveyors used on any packaging line should be designed specifically for the project at hand. Each design will depend not only on the equipment that will be used on the line, but also on the space available and other functions happening around the line, such as unloading, packing or shipping. While a straight line design may work for some packaging facilities, more often than not some twists and turns may be incorporated to add efficiency or safety to the entire production process. Curved conveyors, raised conveyors, wide, narrow and many other design features may be added to a single system to meet the needs of the project. One common design technique employs curved conveyor sections or transfer turntables to allow for a horseshoe-like shape to the packaging line, which in turn allows loading and unloading of bottles to take place on the same side of the production area. Given such designs, LPS believes that conveyor systems, like other packaging machines, should always be custom designed to fit the project at hand.
Power Conveyor Type
As long as the conveyors move the bottles from machine to machine, there doing what they need to do right? While this is true, different projects and even different industries have different requirements when packaging products. Sanitary style conveyors allow for quick and easy cleaning and wash down, minimizing collection points that could cause contamination or technical problems with the conveyors. These conveyors may be seen in the Food and Beverage Industry, Dairy Industry and many others. C-Frame type conveyors offer an enclosed belt return, which can be a benefit in any industry where workers are active by or near the conveyor system, simply adding an extra element of safety to the process. Low profile conveyors, on the other hand, use a small footprint to help save space where space is at a minimum. Providing different types of conveyors helps to ensure that the needs of packagers across all industries can be met by the LPS design and production team.
Power Conveyor Material
Finally, a majority of the power conveyors manufactured by Liquid Packaging Solutions will be built using stainless steel components and assemblies. Stainless steel offers a durable, tough material that can handle sufficient weight to move most products with ease. Still, not every product being packaged interacts well with steel. For example, acids, bleaches and other corrosive materials may eat away at the steel if product splashes or spills, or in some cases, just fumes or atmosphere may cause damage to the stainless material. In these rare cases where special chemicals and products are being packaged, LPS offers all plastic materials to avoid such damage and extend the useful life of the power conveyor system. Just like above, an analysis of the entire packaging process including product, location and many other factors, should be completed with each project before deciding on the correct material for the conveyors.
Of course, there are many other conveyor features that may differ from project to project. For example, conveyor height, width and belt material should all be matched to the project at hand. To discuss your own material handling needs with a Packaging Specialist, feel free to contact Liquid Packaging Solutions today!