3 Important Factors To Consider When Using Gravity Conveyors For Assembly Lines

Conveyor systems are highly variable as per features and applications. However, conveyor machines can be fundamentally divided as powered and non-powered conveyor systems. Gravity conveyors fall in the non-powered category. Be it conveyor rollers, chutes, or some other mechanism, these conveyors simply use the power of gravity to transport products from one point to another. Due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, they are used extensively in assembly lines in conjunction with other powered conveyors. However, there are some factors to consider to use them effectively.

Important Factors To Consider With Gravity Conveyors

Limited Movement

Since these conveyors only use the power of gravity, they can only be operated on a decline. That is, products can only travel from the top to the bottom of the conveyor. If applications require movement in both directions, then gravity conveyors should not be considered. Other powered conveyors, such as belt conveyors, must be installed in this case.

Challenge In Speed Control

Gravity conveyors are not ideal when it comes to speed control. They will travel at a constant speed due to gravity. This means that they can’t be slowed down or sped up during operation. So it has limited viability in assembly lines. Most importantly, they can’t be used to transport fragile goods as there is no mechanism for accumulation and products can collide with one another.

Not Suitable For Heavy Loads

Lastly, gravity conveyors do not work well with heavy loads. The gravitational power is not strong enough to effectively move heavy goods. This limits the conveyor machine significantly. If pushed further, these heavy products can even get lodged in between and create a block, slowing down operations in an assembly line.

For more conveyor integration solutions, contact us at Norpak Handling today. As one of the biggest distributors of conveyor machines in the country, we have a plethora of conveyors at our disposal, including conveyor rollers, belts, chains, sortation conveyors, and more. Reach out to us today at 1-905-885-7674 for more information.