transportation conveyors for efficient warehouse operations

1. The Benefits of Transportation Conveyors for Efficient Warehouse Operations
2. Types of Transportation Conveyors
3. How to Choose the Right Transportation Conveyor
4. Maintaining Transportation Conveyors

Less manual handling and labour costs

Transportation conveyor systems also minimise manual handling and lower labour costs, by:

• shortening walking distances
• minimising manual lifting
• optimising labour
• resolving labour shortages.

Improving warehouse safety

Health and safety are a top priority, and the penalties for breaching these obligations are severe. Conveyor systems improve health and safety by:

• reducing forklift usage and manoeuvres;
• minimising workplace injuries and accidents resulting from manual handling;
• easing the physical strain on workers;
• allowing traffic to flow easier.

A transportation conveyor generates sizable ROI when you choose the right one; but choosing the wrong type becomes a regrettable expense. Below are the things to consider so that you make the right decision.

Product and load characteristics

What are you transporting on the conveyor? This requires you to think about the:

• size: are you handling smaller items, larger ones or a mix, and will the conveyor accommodate them?
• weight: how heavy are the items, how often will you be handling them and will the conveyor withstand them?
• packaging: the packaging will help you determine whether you go for a more heavy-duty option or more gentler handling;
• fragility of the goods: are the items fragile? This could determine the belt material if you choose a belt conveyor and convince you from choosing a roller conveyor.

Future expansion

Are you planning to expand?

As the business grows, you’ll need a flexible conveyor that allows scalability and doesn’t require a major overhaul of the facilities. You should map out how you plan to implement conveyors to ensure efficient warehouse management as the business grows. Flexible conveyors will allow you to meet increased demand without forcing you to move premises or create warehouse space.

Proper maintenance is essential to keep transportation conveyors running efficiently and reliably, and to ensure a longer lifespan.

Preventative maintenance

Regular, scheduled preventative maintenance allows engineers to spot problems before they arise and address them early. This maintenance can include:

• daily routine inspections: checking the conveyor belts for wear and tear, such as rips; for common problems such as belt slippage or material spillage; and for any unusual noises;
• weekly inspections: looking at whether moving parts need lubrication, checking belt tension and tracking and that all safety guards are in place;
• monthly inspections: inspecting the whole conveyor system thoroughly for wear and tear, and cleaning, including any removal of built-up debris. Confirmation that integrated emergency stops are working should be part of these checks;
• cleaning: essential because dust, dirt and debris can build up on the conveyor belt, which causes friction and increases conveyor belt tension. Clean with appropriate agents and techniques, including brushes or compressed air, which won’t harm the system. This can extend the conveyor belt’s lifespan;
• lubrication: to reduce friction and stop overheating, engineers should lubricate any bearings, rollers and chains. Not doing so leads to wear and tear;
• monitoring and replacing components: despite regular maintenance, components still encounter wear and tear, so, to avoid further damage to the system, it’s important to replace them when they become worn;
• monitoring and replacing electrical components: checking monitors, sensors, motors and any other electrical components to ensure they’re working correctly and there are no signs of overheating or corrosion, or any loose components.