Material Handling Equipment

Factors like controls, noise levels and energy efficiency are other deciding factors for adopting conveyors.

Controls have a direct impact on how the conveyor will operate. Firstly, they provide direction to the conveyors. It acts as a traffic cop for data coming from other conveyors, the warehouse management system, and related warehouse components. Both programmable logic controllers and PC-based controls are commonly used. Two other conveyor options to consider are plug-and-play capabilities and modular designs. Plug-and-play units possesses their own power, drives, and controls within each major section of the conveyor. This allows the system to be re-routed and physically relocated with minimal effort.

Secondly, noise reduction is also a common criteria in conveyor selection. Many facilities order conveyors with high precision bearings that surpass safety and health requirements for noise. Cost would increase but it also reduces worker fatigue.

Lastly, energy-efficient motors may be a consideration especially with energy prices in flux.