What Is a Conveyor Roller?
A conveyor roller is a device that facilitates the movement of materials by arranging cylindrical rollers perpendicular to the travel direction. This system significantly reduces the effort required to transport loads by enabling them to roll, thus speeding up the movement of large quantities of items.
Uses of Conveyor Rollers
Conveyor rollers are commonly used in manufacturing facilities and logistics to move large volumes of goods efficiently. Their capability to maintain a consistent speed significantly cuts down on manual labor. While they are ideal for transporting rigid items like cardboard boxes, softer items may face challenges in transfer and could potentially become lodged under the rollers.
The friction on the load is drastically reduced, making the conveyor system a safer alternative to manual or machine transport, essential for factory safety.
Principle of Conveyor Rollers
Comprising rollers, a shaft, bearings, seals, and a frame, roller conveyors allow for smooth rotation around the shaft, supported by ball bearings. Depending on the usage environment, seals may be added to the bearings for protection.
Diverse types of rollers include straight, grooved, and tapered designs, with the roller pitch ensuring material support by at least two rollers. Electrically driven conveyors may use motors integrated into the rollers or external chains or belts for movement.
Characteristics of Conveyor Rollers
1. No Power Required
Manual conveyors, also known as free conveyors, operate without electricity, allowing for horizontal installation or inclined setups for self-propulsion.
2. Variety
Available in steel, aluminum, and resin, rollers come in various diameters and widths, and with different bearings to accommodate light to heavy loads. They can be straight or curved and designed for manual, self-propelled, or electric operation.
3. Environmentally Friendly
Certain conveyors avoid using hazardous substances identified by the EU, featuring non-chrome surface treatments, trivalent chromate bearings, powder-coated frames, and bolts and nuts, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Types of Conveyor Rollers
Conveyor rollers are categorized into free (gravity) conveyors and driven conveyors, distinguished by the use of motor power for load transport.
1. Free Conveyor
Gravity conveyors use the force of gravity to move loads on an incline, requiring no electricity. Installation and maintenance costs are low, with the angle of inclination adjusted based on the load type and weight to ensure efficient transport.
2. Driven Conveyor
Driven conveyors, powered by motors, are suited for stable load movement but may not be ideal for very small objects due to potential gaps between rollers. Drive options include chain drives, built-in motor rollers, accumulating rollers, and V-belt drives, each catering to different power needs and applications.