Conveyor belt systems 101
At Leverlink, we’ve been delivering top tier design and manufacturing solutions for our customers for almost three decades. Our reliable and efficient conveyor belt systems are just one of the many services and products that we provide.
What exactly is a conveyor belt? What are the different conveyor belt types and what can they be used for?
If you have been asking any or all of these questions, this handy guide will answer all of your questions.
What are conveyor belt systems?
Let’s start with the basics. A conveyor belt system is a continuous medium for carrying or transporting objects from one spot to another. While there are many types of conveyor belts used in Australia and beyond (more on that below), most belts are made from either rubber, metal or fabric.
As technology has evolved to keep up with the industry’s needs, these systems can now transport objects in straight lines, through changes in direction, and even up or down inclines.
Where are conveyor belts used?
In short, conveyor belts are used for carrying objects.
A reliable conveyor belt can be used in a very wide range of industries, companies and applications. Basically, anywhere where a continuous line of products or items needs to be transported from one spot to another, a belt conveyor can be invaluable.
For example, companies working with bulk materials–whether it’s grain or coal–might need to transport the material from one processing part of the factory to another. As a traveller, you’ve likely found and collected your luggage from a conveyor belt system at the airport after you’ve landed at your destination. Even food processing plants will need to carry their goods through the inspection, cleaning and packaging stations via a conveyor belt.
How do conveyor belts work?
The basic structure of a conveyor belt is actually pretty simple in theory. The system comprises of two (or more) pulleys and a closed loop that acts as the medium strip on which to carry the objects.
This strip is what is referred to as the conveyor belt. The belt can be made up of a number of materials or even distinct rollers, depending on the needs of the particular application. Regardless, for the system to work, a mechanism rotates the conveyor belt around so that the objects that are sitting on top are carried along the rotation from the spot where they are to the place where they are needed.
Factors such as the environment, speed, size and loads being carried will likely determine whether fabric, metal or rubber is best for your particular conveyor belt solution. In some cases, even leather or plastic could be suitable. Each different material comes with a range of advantages, so it’s important to consider the specifications of your project when selecting the right belt material. If you’re not sure, make sure to speak with the Leverlink team for guidance.
What are the different types of conveyor belts?
As mentioned above, there are many different types of conveyor belts. From size to material, and design to structure, the best conveyor belt manufacturers in Australia, such as Leverlink, can engineer a truly custom solution to suit whatever your requirements are.
Roller Bed Conveyor Belts
Roller conveyor belts, often called roller bed conveyor belts, are made up of a series of metal cylinders that are evenly spread across the length of the system. These rollers rotate independently as opposed to the entire belt rotating. As you probably realise, roller conveyor belts are only suitable for carrying items that won’t fall through the gaps between rollers, like bulky boxes.
Curved Belt Conveyors
A curved belt conveyor is actually exactly what it sounds like. The conveyor belt system itself includes a curved section which allows the items to be carried in different directions. Depending on your need, your system might turn in 45, 90 or even 180 degree angles. One of the great benefits of curved belt conveyors is that they allow you to optimise the space in your factory or warehouse floor.
Specialty Conveyor Belts
When manufacturing a conveyor belt, suppliers will often take into consideration the type of material that is going to be handled. Aggressive materials for example will require a speciality conveyor belt to ensure that the material travels smoothly and won’t roll back or the addition of a conveyor belt edge support to prevent sagging. The Leverlink engineers will consult directly with you to understand your application needs. If you have special requirements around reducing impact or ensuring the conveyor belt is abrasion resistant, we’ll be sure to cater for that in our design and manufacturing of the belt conveyor.
Flat Belt Conveyors
Flat bed conveyors are best suitable for carrying bags, luggage or cartons. Made up of a flat-bed idler or pulley, this standard system can be adjusted and customised to suit your needs. You can also customise the length of the belt itself, so whether you’re looking for a mini conveyor belt or a large mining conveyor belt, a flat belt solution might be just what you need.
Reliable conveyor belts systems for all applications
Finding a new or used conveyor belt for sale in Australia shouldn’t be difficult. In fact, with Leverlink, getting a custom quote for a made-to-order conveyor belt isn’t difficult either!
With decades of industry experience and a proudly Australian based and operated team, we know what it takes to produce a reliable conveyor belt.
Regardless of the size, application or industry, make sure to speak to the Leverlink team. We’ll think of an innovative solution for you, so you can get back to what you do best. Get a quote for conveyor belt systems today.
