Running a successful material handling operation requires more than just a belt conveyor. It demands a comprehensive system of accessories that work together to ensure smooth, efficient and safe operation.
With over 30 years of experience producing conveyor systems, we at Spaceguard understand the importance of these components in optimising your material handling processes. Below, we take a look at the essential conveyor belt accessories that can elevate your operation.
Why are Conveyor Belt Accessories Important?
Conveyor belt accessories, also known as conveyor components or conveyor parts, are much more than just add-ons. They can prevent problems, ensure smooth operation, and ultimately improve your entire material handling system. The right accessories can:
- Reduce downtime caused by belt slippage, misalignment, or product build-up.
- Minimise maintenance needs, saving you time and money.
- Extend the life of your conveyor belt and other components.
- Enhance safety for operators by preventing hazards.
- Increase productivity by ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of materials.
Essential Conveyor Belt Accessories for Every Application
The specific conveyor belt accessories you need will depend on your unique application. However, some essential components can benefit almost any conveyor system:
Idlers and Rollers
Conveyor rollers and idlers provide support for the conveyor belt and allow it to move smoothly by removing friction. In turn, this reduces wear and tear, ultimately prolonging the lifespan of the conveyor. Idlers and rollers come in various materials like steel or plastic, with different diameters and capacities to suit your weight requirements. Conveyor roller types include:
- Gravity conveyor rollers – Passive conveyor components that rely on gravity to move items along the conveyor.
- Driven conveyor rollers – Motorised rollers with an internal mechanism that creates torque to rotate it.
- Heavy-duty conveyor rollers – Best suited for industrial applications.
Pulleys
Pulleys drive the conveyor belt by friction and transmitting power from the motor. Lagging, a rubber or ceramic coating on the pulley surface, can improve friction and prevent wear.
Guide Rails
Guard rails keep the conveyor belt tracking properly and prevent it from wandering off course. By preventing misalignment, these accessories minimise product damage and reduce downtime caused by jams or misfeeds. They can be made of steel, plastic, or even self-adjusting materials.
Cleats
Cleats (or flights) are attached to the belt to help it increase traction on inclined surfaces and prevent products from sliding back down. This makes these accessories particularly useful in industries handling heavy, irregular, or fragile materials. They come in various shapes and sizes depending on the angle of incline and the product being conveyed.
Belt Cleaners
Belt cleaners remove material build-up from the conveyor belt, which can cause tracking problems, wear and tear, and product contamination. Common belt cleaners include scrapers, brushes, and ploughs.
Transfer Plates
Transfer tables or plates are crucial components that facilitate the smooth transition of materials from one conveyor to another or onto a workstation.
Clamps and Fasteners
Conveyor belt fasteners and clamps are essential components that ensure the system operates securely. Fasteners, such as mechanical connectors or vulcanised splices, join the ends of the conveyor belt to create a continuous loop.
Clamps, on the other hand, are temporary fixtures used for belt installation, maintenance or repair. Proper fastening and clamping not only prevent accidents and product damage but also facilitate easy maintenance and repair when needed.
Choosing the Right Conveyor Belt Accessories
With such a wide range of conveyor belt accessories available, you can consider the following factors to help you narrow it down:
- The type of conveyor system – Belt conveyors, gravity conveyors and modular conveyors all have specific accessory requirements.
- The material being conveyed – The size, weight and characteristics of your product will influence the type of idlers, cleats, and belt cleaners needed.
- The application environment – Factors like temperature, moisture and exposure to chemicals may necessitate specific materials for your conveyor components.
Convey Your Accessory Requirements to Spaceguard
Conveyor belt accessories are not merely optional add-ons, but essential partners in creating a smooth, efficient and safe material handling system. By incorporating the right accessories specific to your application, you can achieve significant benefits like reduced downtime, minimised maintenance and an extended equipment lifespan.
At Spaceguard, we offer a wide range of conveyor belts to meet the diverse needs of various industries, including contract packing, electrical assembly, automotive, e-commerce, food production, upholstery and many more.
Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the right accessories and configure the ideal conveyor system for your specific application, ensuring optimal productivity, efficiency and safety. Contact us today for a free quote.