conveyor technology

definition

Material handling technology deals with the conception, design, planning and implementation of conveyor systems that can be used to transport goods and products. It is essential for the flow of materials in companies, as it makes this possible in the first place.

In the narrower sense, conveyor technology primarily refers to the technology used to transport goods: pallet trucks, forklifts, cranes, carts, rollers, wagons, conveyor belts and many more. It is part of intralogistics - i.e. internal company logistics.

function

On the one hand, conveyor technology ensures that goods can be tracked and located along the way through various work processes and do not get lost - the so-called process design . The work processes just mentioned include, for example, the production, processing and distribution of goods. In these processes, goods must be issued, delivered, stored or picked. On the other hand, these very activities require special conveyor technology that makes transport possible in the first place - conveyor technology in the sense of conveying means . In general, this area can also be referred to as logistics.

resources, machines and technologies

Conveyor technology covers many areas and offers a wide range of options for internal transport. A basic distinction is made between automated, semi-automated and manual conveyor technology. A distinction is also made between continuous conveyors and discontinuous conveyors.

Manual systems are used when goods are transported once or at irregular times. Roller conveyors are often used here - for example for order picking work. There are:

• light roller conveyors
• heavy-duty roller conveyors
• small roller conveyors
• scissor roller conveyors

Automated and semi-automated systems ensure greater efficiency in operations and thus increased profitability. Safety is also guaranteed by high standards. These systems include, for example, lifting platforms, lifting stations or sorting systems. In addition to the large selection of products, individual construction is also possible.

Continuous conveyors are conveyors that move the transported goods without interruption - all types of tracks and wheels and other individual ones, such as vibrating conveyors.

Discontinuous conveyors are conveyors that move goods irregularly and not in a timed manner. These include carts, transport trolleys, forklifts, pallet trucks , cranes and many others.

The basic conveyor technologies include storage and retrieval machines, shuttle systems and industrial trucks:

1. Storage and retrieval machines - or RBG for short - are used for the removal and entry of goods in high-bay warehouses . The goods are moved up and down quickly via a vertical rail guide, with large weights, high acceleration and strong braking.
2. Shuttle systems operate on a horizontal rail system with goods that are light in weight.
3. Industrial trucks are the most widely used means of transport in industry and are also extremely popular and reliable: pallet trucks and forklifts are available in various designs. Pallet trucks offer a whole range of models for every purpose.

• Pallet trucks made of different materials - steel, stainless steel
• Pallet trucks with different tire options - polyurethane, nylon, TPE, solid rubber, etc.
• Pallet trucks with different load capacities - from 500 kg to 3500 kg
• low-lift truck or high-lift truck
• Pallet trucks for special requirements - with scales, extra-long or short forks, for outdoor use, for clean rooms, etc.
• Manual pallet trucks or electric pallet trucks
• Eco-pallet truck or professional pallet truck

components of the conveyor technology

In addition to the large, overarching categories, there are also small components that make a significant contribution to the transport of goods. Here is a brief overview:

• Ropes, pulleys, pulleys, rope drums, traction sheaves
• Chains, straps, belts
• wheels, rails
• load hooks, pliers, clamps, grippers

See also