Designing Conveyor Systems for Safety, Efficiency, and Long-Term Productivity
Following design principles that establish safe, service-friendly, and easy-to-clean belt conveyor systems leads to more efficient and productive operations. A cleaner, safer operation typically results in greater long-term productivity. Safety issues often indicate unsafe operating conditions that can also harm equipment. Airborne dust can enter lungs and bearings, while material accumulation on walkways and conveyors creates slip, trip, and fall hazards. These unsafe conditions jeopardize both health and the equipment's condition. When equipment undergoes unscheduled repairs, it cannot contribute to productivity.
Cost Effective
Considering the total cost of ownership, including the cost per kilogram (per pound) of managing fugitive material releases, is crucial in design and purchasing decisions. Unfortunately, the lowest-bid process, which focuses solely on initial purchase price, has hindered the advancement of clean, safe, and productive designs. Although a system with no adjustment capabilities or foresight for wear-component replacement may have a lower initial price, the higher costs of proper installation, maintenance, fugitive material cleanup, and increased equipment downtime far outweigh those of a system designed with these factors in mind from the start.
Using standard components in design where feasible can be economically advantageous, as it allows for some cost savings. With thoughtful design adjustments, standard components (such as structure, cradles, skirting, etc.) can often be aligned with these new design principles. Standard components also facilitate easier installation and replacement due to standardized practices across the facility. Designing systems for upgradability, such as through track-mounted and service-friendly components, reduces downtime and manages fugitive materials effectively.
Upgradeable
Designers frequently consider capacity upgrades but often overlook provisions for upgrading components. A track-mounted system offers flexibility for swiftly integrating various problem-solving components. Pre-engineered mounting hole patterns around conveyor transfer points enable quick and easy installation of new or improved systems. Standardized hole patterns for accessory mounting encourage component suppliers to adopt modular, bolt-on, or clamp-on designs for seamless retrofits. Implementing structural platform designs that incorporate tracks and facilitate easy retrofitting will inspire ongoing innovation in bulk material handling practices today and in the future.