Common types of conveyor systems used in warehouses include belt, roller, and powered conveyors designed to move products efficiently and safely. If you’re researching conveyor options, understanding how each type works can help you choose the right system for your operation.
Conveyor systems play a critical role in material handling by improving workflow, reducing manual labor, and increasing overall efficiency. From small operations to large distribution centers, the right setup can significantly impact productivity.
Conveyor Belt Types
Conveyors are used throughout the industrial world to transport materials quickly and consistently. Many systems can be customized based on load size, layout, and operational goals. Below are some of the most commonly used conveyor systems:
- Belt conveyor
- Wheel conveyor
- Roller conveyor
- Powered roller conveyor
Belt Conveyor
Belt conveyors are one of the most widely used systems in industrial environments. They move goods using powered or unpowered pulleys and are ideal for transporting large volumes of items such as boxes, packages, and bulk materials.
These systems can be constructed using rubber, metal, or other durable materials depending on the application. Many facilities choose belt conveyors not just for efficiency, but also for safety features such as emergency stop mechanisms and controlled movement speeds.
Wheel Conveyor
Wheel conveyors, often called skate wheel conveyors, are non-powered systems that rely on gravity to move items. They are commonly used for lightweight packages and temporary or flexible conveyor lines.
One advantage of wheel conveyors is their adaptability. The spacing and number of wheels can be adjusted to match product size and weight, making them a practical option for operations that need flexibility without a powered system.
Roller Conveyor
Roller conveyors can be powered or gravity-fed, depending on the application. These systems are ideal for moving heavier items, including pallets and bulk materials.
They offer strong load capacity and can be configured with straight sections, curves, or spurs to match your facility layout. Gravity roller conveyors are especially useful for moving products from higher to lower elevations while reducing manual handling.
Powered Roller Conveyor
Powered roller conveyors use motors to move materials along the system. These are commonly used in high-volume environments where speed and consistency are essential.
They are often used to transport pallets, containers, and heavier goods in industries such as manufacturing and automotive. Components like belts, chains, and sprockets help drive the rollers and maintain steady movement throughout the system.
Some chain-driven conveyors fall into this category, especially when handling heavy-duty applications.
Other Types of Conveyors
In more advanced operations, conveyor systems are often integrated into larger material handling solutions. These may include:
- Power and free conveyors for production lines where overhead movement is required
- Chute conveyors that use gravity to move items between levels
- Vertical conveyors designed to lift materials between floors
- Slat conveyors for heavy or irregularly shaped loads
- Pneumatic conveyor systems used to move fine materials through enclosed tubes using air pressure
These systems are often part of a broader warehouse design that includes automation, storage systems, and workflow optimization.
Trusted Warehouse Storage and Conveyor System Experts Since 1982
If you’re planning to install or upgrade a conveyor system, we can help you evaluate your options and design a setup that fits your operation. Whether you’re expanding, optimizing, or starting from scratch, our team is ready to support your project from concept to completion.
Contact us today to discuss your warehouse needs in Phoenix or the surrounding areas and get expert guidance on the right conveyor system for your facility.