If your business operates in an industry that involves moving materials or goods from one location to another within a large space, a conveyor belt system can make the task infinitely easier and more efficient. As a flexible type of machinery with lots of scope for customization, conveyor systems can be used in a wide variety of environments and for a wide variety of purposes. On the flip side, this means that it’s very important to ensure you get the right setup for your specific needs when choosing a conveyor belt system for your company. Here are some of the factors that you should bear in mind when choosing one to help you out.
Space
Firstly, think about the area you intend to have the conveyor belt system installed in. Factors such as floor space, room layout, other equipment in the room, and ceiling height will all impact the type of system you can have put in. In addition to simply fitting in the space, you also need to think about issues like gaining easy access to the conveyor for maintenance and cleaning, operational performance, and of course, worker safety. Having a system custom made for your space by a company such as fluentconveyors.com may well be the best option for you.
Environment
The environment that the conveyor belt system will be housed in is also a key consideration. For example, factors such as the temperature of the room, the humidity levels of the space, and the presence of dust will all impact what machinery you will be able to use. In addition, if you have any fragile, flammable, or otherwise dangerous materials in close proximity to the system, this will also have to be taken into account.
Cost
Of course, cost is always an important factor in any business decision. Naturally, you don’t want to spend more money than necessary, but equally, if you go for the cheapest option out there, it may cause problems down the line as a result of low quality or poor customer support from the provider. Be realistic with your budget, but don’t be afraid to invest in the right equipment – it will pay off in the long run.
Purpose
Finally, your conveyor belt system’s purpose is key, and the type of material or goods that you wish to move on it will make a big difference. For example, are they fragile or durable? Lightweight or very heavy? Large or small? Wet or dry? Abrasive or smooth? Other factors to consider include whether the goods need to be kept at a constant temperature or free from contaminants. All of these issues will affect what speed the belt can move at, how quickly it can stop, and whether it needs to be open or enclosed. If you have different requirements at different points along the belt system, for instance, if it needs to handle more than one type of material or pass through differing environments, this will also have to be taken into account.