What makes up a conveyor?

    Wheel conveyors are put on axles with spacers in between each other to keep them from moving side to side. Every axle is three inches apart, so for every foot in length on the conveyor there are four axles. The number of wheels on an axle varies depending on the width of the conveyor. There is a minimum number of wheels a conveyor should have though. Every foot there should be at least 10 wheels.

Roller conveyors are also put on axles, but their axles are spring loaded on one side. This makes it so the axle can be moved to one side and the roller can easily be replaced or removed for maintenance. Rollers should be put as close together or far apart as necessary. There should always be always at least 3 rollers under your materials otherwise it may tumble.

    You may be wondering, “Well, what can I put on a conveyor?” Any items with a smooth, flat bottom. These items can be wider than the conveyor, 6 in. over on each side is not too much. Extra wide items like plywood, can be moved O.K., but center it carefully. Bent pans and tote boxes will not move easily. Use as many wheels as possible for the best results. What can’t go on a conveyor? Items with an uneven or open bottom, or with a rim on the bottom. These items should never be bigger around than the rollers are long.

    How are conveyors setup? Conveyors can be setup to be a portable and permanent system. A portable conveyor has hooked couplings and a tripod stand. A permanent conveyor has butt couplings with permanent stationary supports.