Slide conveyors are simple, gravity-based systems used to transport materials. They can be connected to assembly line equipment, processing machinery, and storage tanks. There are three basic designs: gravity, air slide, and magnetic. They can be open or enclosed and are low cost and low maintenance.
A slide conveyor is a simple conveying system used to transport materials by gravity. These conveyors are designed to connect to assembly line equipment, processing machinery and storage tanks. They feature an inclined design that glides materials along the length of the conveyor without mechanical or electrical assistance. Crews unload raw materials onto the slide conveyor, which then transfers the materials into bins or hoppers used in manufacturing and production. These conveyors can also be placed at the end of an assembly line, where they capture finished product or scrap and transfer it to another area for storage, shipping or disposal.
Businesses can choose from three basic slide conveyor designs. The most basic is the gravity slide, which works much like a kid’s slide found on a playground. Materials placed at the top of the conveyor will naturally slide down due to gravity. The air slide conveyor is similar, but uses air pressure to complement the effects of gravity and help materials flow more easily. An air slide conveyor is useful in applications involving very fine powders, such as grain or powdered chemicals, or in areas where the conveyor cannot be set at the proper slope.
A magnetic slide conveyor is used to separate ferrous from non-ferrous materials as they flow along the conveyor. These devices can also be used to assist gravity in moving metallic materials. This can be achieved by using a standard magnet or electromagnetic system to attract ferrous materials.
Sliding conveyors can feature an open or closed design. Open units are relatively flat and may have raised guides or edges to prevent materials from falling off the sides. Enclosed chutes help contain materials to avoid mess and reduce the risk of injury from objects falling off the conveyor. Each conveyor is designed to distribute materials to one location, such as a machine or a simple storage or disposal container.
One of the main advantages associated with this type of conveyor is its simplicity and low cost. Gravity conveyors have no moving parts, resulting in little to no maintenance. Compared to mechanical conveyor belts and other complex systems, these units tend to last longer and cost less in terms of initial costs and repairs. The simplicity of these devices also makes them easy to use and helps reduce training time for employees.
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