Top Conveyor Systems Options in Mexico

Explore the benefits, types, essential parts, and factors to consider when choosing the right conveyor system. Find out more information below for offers

A conveyor system is a fast and efficient mechanical handling apparatus for automatically transporting loads and materials within an area. This system minimizes human error, lowers workplace risks, and reduces labor costs—among other benefits. They are especially useful in moving bulky or heavy items from one point to another. Conveyor systems may use a belt, wheels, rollers, or a chain to transport objects. Typically, conveyor systems consist of a belt stretched across two or more pulleys, forming a closed loop around the pulleys to rotate continually. One pulley, known as the drive pulley, drives or tows the belt, moving items from one location to another.

The most common conveyor system designs use a rotor to power the drive pulley and belt. The belt remains attached to the rotor through friction between the two surfaces. For effective movement, both the drive pulley and idler must run in the same direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise.

While conventional conveyor systems like moving walkways and grocery store conveyors are straight, sometimes the unit needs to turn to deliver items to the proper location. For turns, unique cone-shaped wheels or rotors allow the belt to follow a bend or twist without getting tangled.

Benefits of Conveyor Systems in Mexico

The main purpose of a conveyor system is to move objects from one location to another. The design allows for the movement of objects that are too heavy or too bulky for humans to carry by hand. Conveyor systems save time when transporting items and can be inclined to span multiple levels, making it simpler to move items up and down floors. Inclined belts can automatically unload material, eliminating the need for someone to be on the opposite end to receive pieces.

Types and Examples of Conveyor Systems

You can imagine a large warehouse in Mexico filled with conveyors using belts and rollers to move boxes and other heavy equipment, but this is just one of several types of conveyor systems. You’ll also find conveyor systems in airports to transport luggage, in escalators, and in ski lifts. These apparatuses still use a belt or chain and pulleys to move heavy items from one point to another.

There are many types of conveyor systems, including:

• Belt
• Roller
• Slat/Apron
• Ball Transfer
• Overhead
• Pneumatic
• Bucket
• Chute
• Magnetic
• Vertical
• Wheel
• Walking Beam
• Vibrating
• Screw/Auger
• Chain

Each type of conveyor serves a specific purpose. For example, a slat conveyor, made from slats or plates instead of a belt, is designed for moving heavy materials that are typically too large or heavy for traditional belt movement.

Essential Parts of a Conveyor System

There are three main parts of a conveyor system: the belt support, the pulley, and the drive unit. Each component plays an essential role in the conveyor unit’s operation. While all conveyor systems contain these parts, designs vary in construction materials and component placement.

• Belt Support: Ensures the belt moves smoothly. If the support unit is not firm, the belt sags under heavy objects, causing inefficiency.
• Pulley System: Controls the belt movement. Each unit has at least two pulleys: one powered and one idle.
• Drive Unit: Allows the system to move. It contains a counter bearing that keeps the parts moving efficiently and enables the belt to move in reverse and manage repeated direction adjustments.

Choosing the Right Conveyor System for Your Business in Mexico

A conveyor system acts as a central nervous system for operations that receive, handle, store, distribute, manufacture, or ship products. Selecting the right conveyor system can be challenging due to the various types and configurations available.

Product Requirements

When searching for the best conveyor system for your facility in Mexico, consider:

• Type of product being conveyed
• Average weight per foot of the product
• Maximum weight of the products
• Minimum, maximum, and average dimensions of the product
• Product orientation

These factors will determine the conveyor's design, dimensions, and type.

Process Requirements

Process requirements include:

• Distance items need to move between functional areas
• Pathway, including stops, elevation changes, curves, or diversions
• Product orientation for easy scanning or transfer
• Transfer speed
• Ambient environment
• Available space
• Flow rate

Your conveyor system should handle your facility’s average transfer rate and peak demand periods.

Cost and Compatibility

Conveyor systems offer significant benefits but can be costly to purchase, install, and maintain. Factors affecting cost include the type of system, overall length, required speed, dimensions, and transfer methods.

For businesses in Mexico, consider budget, speed, space constraints, and loading/unloading plans when choosing a conveyor system. While conveyor systems require substantial infrastructure changes, they enhance productivity, improve ergonomics, reduce product damage, and increase workplace safety.