Among the different types of conveyor systems used in material handling, the most popular ones include chain conveyors, roller conveyors and belt conveyors. Coming to the former two, they have their own features and advantages. This makes their application quite distinct from one another. This blog explores the main differences between the two in terms of application, so manufacturers can make a more informed choices.
Chain Conveyors Versus Roller Conveyors
Chain Conveyors
This type of conveyor is ideal for the following scenarios:
- Handling heavy-duty items: Hefty items such as drums and pallets are easily transported with chain conveyors. The reason is their pulling strength, which offers enough traction to move the heavy load with ease.
- Operating in extreme conditions: In cases where the conveyor is exposed to extreme conditions such as high temperatures, chain conveyors are an ideal choice. A classic example is curing or baking ovens, where the durability of a chain conveyor really comes in handy.
- High-throughput operations: Lastly, operations that see very high throughput also benefit from a chain conveyor due to its durability. This type of conveyor system can handle demanding production speeds without facing significant downtime.
Roller Conveyors
Comprising conveyor rollers spaced equidistantly apart from one another, they are best-suited for the following cases:
- Handling medium or light loads: Roller conveyors are excellent at handling products that are considered medium-duty or lightweight. The low coefficient of friction makes it easier to transport these products without placing too much load on the system.
- Budget constraints: When compared to a chain conveyor, a roller conveyor is more cost effective. This is because the cost of manufacturing and assembling this conveyor is low. Therefore, in cases where budget is a major constraint and product fragility is not a factor, roller conveyor are the ideal choice.
To know more about quality conveyor solutions, please contact us at Norpak Handling. We offer excellent material handling products and general conveyors and conveyor machines across North America. Over the decades, Norpak Handling has built a reputation for providing quality conveyor equipment and solutions, including conveyor belts, conveyor rollers, chains, and more specialized equipment. Contact our experts today to really make a dent in your material handling performance.
