Conveyor

Name:
Conveyor
Detailed information:
Any device for continuous transport of raw materials, assembly units, or finished products. The more important types are as follows, all except (4), (6), and (7) being mechanically driven.

(1)	Chain
(a)	Plain chain: four or more parallel chains whose tops are a little higher than the tracks on which they move (used for flat objects, cartons, metal bars, etc.).
(b)	In floor: two parallel chains operating in metal channels about 16 inches apart and set into the floor (used for conveying cartons of finished goods to storage or loading dock).
(c)	Enclosed chain: steel sprockets or drags, wholly enclosed; horizontal, vertical, or inclined movements are possible (used for powders, grain, vegetable products).
(2)	Belt
(a)	Light: flat, rubber/fabric structure for carrying units through a packaging or assembly line; also for feeding rubber or plastic mixes to extruder.
(b)	Heavy: rubber/fabric structure with thick cover, for long-distance conveying of bulk solids (coal, coke, gravel, ores).
(3)	Screw: an auger rotating in a metal trough or channel; used for feeding particulates to mixing equipment, handling light solids (wood chips, sawdust, etc.).
(4)	Gravity roller: cylindrical metal rollers attached to metal track or frame; used for conveying cartons or boxes where plant layout permits uniform gravity movement; the angle of incline is critical.
(5)	Bucket: metal scoops mounted on belts or steel frames (for vertical carriage of gravel, crushed stone, ores, etc.).
(6)	Pneumatic: metal tubes of varying diameters operated by positive or negative air pressure; used for light particulates (unloading bins and hopper cars and intraplant transport).
(7)	Pipeline: plastic or welded steel tubes for long-distance movement of crude oil, refined products, ammonia, natural gas, water, steam. Positive pressure required.