FAQ’s

The available conveyor systems include belt conveyors, ideal for transporting lightweight and bulk materials; roller conveyors for moving items with smooth bottoms; and chain conveyors that transport anything from light bottles and cans to heavy-duty palletised loads. Pneumatic conveyors are suited for powders or lightweight materials, while vibrating conveyors handle granular materials. Additionally, bucket conveyors and screw conveyors are used for vertical transport of bulk items, and spiral/auger conveyors save space by moving materials in a compact vertical loop.

To choose the right conveyor system, consider the material type, size, weight, and fragility of the items being transported. Evaluate factors like speed, throughput (items per hour), available space, and whether the system needs to handle elevation changes. Additionally, factor in environmental conditions, maintenance requirements, and your budget to ensure long-term efficiency and compatibility with existing equipment.

When designing a conveyor system, consider the material type, load characteristics, and required speed and throughput (items per hour). Evaluate environmental conditions, space limitations, and any necessary elevation changes. Additionally, ensure ease of maintenance, safety features, energy efficiency, and integration with existing equipment.

Conveyor systems improve efficiency by automating material handling, reducing manual labour and operational costs. They streamline the movement of goods, speeding up processes like sorting, packaging, and assembly. Additionally, conveyors help optimise space utilisation and ensure smoother workflows, reducing bottlenecks and downtime.

Safety considerations when operating conveyor systems include ensuring proper guarding and emergency stop mechanisms to prevent accidents. Regular maintenance is essential to avoid mechanical failures, and operators should be trained to work alongside or around the system safely. Additionally, it’s important to monitor load limits and ensure that the system complies with relevant safety standards.

Conveyor systems should be maintained regularly, with a schedule based on usage frequency and intensity, typically once a month. Routine inspections should be carried out regularly and should include checking for wear, lubrication, and alignment of components. Preventative maintenance can help identify potential issues early and reduce downtime.

Belt conveyors typically operate at speeds of 1 to 10 meters per second, depending on the application. Roller conveyors generally run at slower speeds, around 0.3 to 1 meter per second, due to their gravity-based or powered nature. Pneumatic conveyors, depending on material type, can operate at speeds ranging from 5 to 30 meters per second. The speed of the conveyor can be worked into the design to help accommodate the end user.

Yes, conveyor systems can handle inclines by using angled belts or specialised systems like spiral conveyors for vertical movement. Roller conveyors can also navigate slight inclines using gravity or powered systems for elevation changes. Additionally, belt conveyors and modular systems can be designed to change direction through curves or turns.

Conveyor belts are typically made from materials like rubber, PVC, polyurethane, and fabric, depending on the application. Choose the right material based on factors like load type, temperature resistance, and the environment (e.g., wet or abrasive conditions). For heavy-duty or specialised applications, options like steel-reinforced belts or antimicrobial coatings may be necessary.

To calculate the capacity requirements for your conveyor system, determine the material weight and the desired throughput (items per hour). Multiply the weight of each item by the required rate to move them over a specific time. Factor in the conveyor speed and width to ensure it can handle the total volume efficiently without overloading.

Energy efficiency considerations for conveyor systems include selecting the right drive type, such as energy-efficient motors or variable frequency drives (VFDs). Optimise conveyor speeds to match throughput requirements and reduce unnecessary energy consumption. Regular maintenance, like proper lubrication and alignment, helps minimise friction and energy loss.

Conveyor systems can be integrated with warehouse management software (WMS) through programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and sensors for real-time data tracking. Use software APIs or middleware to enable communication between the conveyor system and WMS for tasks like inventory tracking, order picking, and sorting. Ensure the system is scalable and compatible with existing equipment for seamless integration and automation.

Modular conveyor systems offer flexibility with easy reconfiguration to adapt to changing needs. They are cost-effective, as individual components can be replaced or upgraded without replacing the entire system. Additionally, modular systems are easier to maintain and expand, providing scalability for future growth.

To troubleshoot common conveyor belt problems, first check for misalignment or tension issues that could cause the belt to slip or veer off track. Inspect for worn-out or damaged components like rollers, pulleys, or belts, and replace them as needed. Also, ensure that the motor and drive components are functioning properly and that there is no obstruction in the system.

The latest innovations in conveyor technology include the use of smart conveyors with sensors and IoT connectivity for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. Modular and flexible conveyor designs allow for easy reconfiguration to meet changing operational needs. Additionally, energy-efficient conveyors with advanced motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs) help reduce energy consumption and improve overall system efficiency.

To reduce noise levels in conveyor operations, use sound-dampening materials like rubber or plastic coatings on rollers and belts. Ensure proper alignment and tension of the conveyor system to minimise friction-related noise. Regular maintenance and lubrication of moving parts also help reduce squeaks, vibrations, and other noise sources.

To ensure your conveyor system complies with industry regulations, follow relevant safety standards like OSHA or ISO guidelines for equipment design and operation. Implement safety features such as emergency stops, guards, and sensors to meet regulatory requirements. Regularly review and update the system according to changes in industry-specific regulations and conduct audits to ensure ongoing compliance.

Roller conveyors use a series of rollers to move materials, making them ideal for stable, flat-bottomed items such as boxes and trays. Belt conveyors use a continuous belt to transport materials, offering a smoother surface for a wider range of items, including small or irregularly shaped goods. Roller conveyors are often used for gravity-driven systems, while belt conveyors are more versatile and commonly used for powered applications.

For handling fragile or delicate items, belt conveyors with smooth, soft surfaces are ideal to prevent damage. Modular belt conveyors offer flexibility with gentler handling and customisable configurations. Vibratory conveyors can also be used for sensitive items, providing minimal contact and reducing the risk of damage.

To extend the lifespan of conveyor belts, ensure regular maintenance such as proper tensioning and alignment. Lubricate components regularly to reduce friction and wear. Additionally, avoid overloading the system and protect the belts from abrasive materials or extreme temperatures that could cause damage.

Gravity conveyors are cost-effective because they don’t require power, reducing energy costs. They are simple to install and maintain, offering flexibility in layout and easy integration with other systems.

Additionally, gravity conveyors are ideal for moving light to medium loads with minimal effort, relying on the force of the operator or gravity to move items.

In temperature-controlled environments, choose conveyor systems with materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, such as stainless steel or heat-resistant belts, gearboxes & motors. Ensure insulation and environmentally sealed components to protect the system from temperature fluctuations and condensation. Regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial to prevent frost buildup or overheating of the system’s parts.

To reduce product damage, use soft or cushioned conveyor surfaces like rubber or fabric belts. Ensure the system is properly aligned and tensioned to prevent jarring or misalignment that can cause items to fall. Implement speed control to ensure materials move gently and avoid sudden starts, stops, or impacts.

To properly train staff, provide hands-on training on how to safely operate and troubleshoot conveyor systems. Offer instruction on regular maintenance tasks like cleaning, lubrication, and part inspections to ensure proper functioning. Regularly review safety protocols and conduct refresher courses to ensure staff stays updated on best practices and emergency procedures.

To choose the right conveyor accessories, first assess your system’s specific needs, such as load type, speed, and environment. Next, consider factors like durability, compatib ility with existing equipment, and maintenance requirements.

Finally, consult with manufacturers or experts to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

We understand the operation our clients work in within the industries we operate and recognise that every second counts, a minuet of down time can have huge repercussions and therefore we will always ensure works can be performed around the operating hours a client has.

Conveyor equipment comes in all kinds of shapes and sizes. We have the experience and expertise to work on a vast range of equipment and can assist with any maintenance and service works whether the equipment was supplied by IDC or not.

Not only do IDC have an array of in house designed equipment but we also work alongside our clients to ensure we meet any requirement they have whether it’s a preferred motor supplier or a specification booklet outlining the complete design and manufacture of their equipment.

Yes, IDC has operated throughout the whole of Europe and further. This is not limited to exports as IDC are able to provide installation in the countries we export our equipment to, proving a one-stop client solution.

Due to the vast and ever-expanding range of equipment IDC can offer do not list all the equipment on our website. Not only this but IDC have a reputation for designing and manufacturing bespoke equipment tailored around the requirements of the client.