Warehouses are the primary component of an efficient supply chain, and bespoke conveyor systems are essential for making operations more efficient. A conveyor system can improve throughput (which is the number of products processed in a specific period) and streamline product movement in any warehouse.
Our guide will walk you through what conveyor systems are, their functionalities, their benefits, the different types of systems available and more.
What is a Bespoke Conveyor System?
A bespoke conveyor system is a custom-designed material handling solution designed to meet the requirements of a warehouse or production facility. Bespoke systems are built specifically to handle special product types (e.g. fragile items, heavy goods), unique layouts or space constraints and high throughput demands. These systems use maximum efficiency by adapting to the business’s operational requirements, which improves productivity and reduces manual labour.
At Axiom, our conveyor systems are engineered to integrate with both small-scale operations and large automated facilities. We specialise in conveyor systems that improve productivity, reduce handling time, and maximise floor space.
How Do Conveyor Systems Work?
Conveyor systems are designed to move goods from one point to another with minimal effort.
They consist of 3 parts:
- Motors: For powering the system
- Conveyor belts or rollers: Transport materials
- Control systems: Automate movement and integrate with warehouse processes
The conveyor system moves goods through a combination of mechanical motion and automation, enabling precise and consistent product handling. For example, a warehouse with high throughput needs a conveyor system that can handle large quantities of goods effortlessly whilst reducing downtime.
Benefits of Integrating Conveyor Systems
- ✅ Efficiency – Automated material handling reduces manual processes
- ✅ Higher throughput – processes goods faster, meeting tight deadlines
- ✅ Minimises costs – Reduces labour costs and errors associated with manual handling
- ✅ Saves space – custom systems maximise the use of warehouse space
- ✅ Safety – minimises risk of injuries caused by manual lifting and carrying
At Axiom, we provide a variety of conveyor systems and tailor solutions to your warehousing needs. We offer several types of conveyors, all with different specialisms. Elements of these can be combined to improve the throughput of your warehouse.
Belt Conveyors
Designed for efficient materials handling, belt conveyors are versatile and suitable for transporting a wide range of products. Key features include:
- Construction: Based on a robust design with a proprietary anodised aluminium side profile.
- Drive Options: Compatible with servo, AC & DC motors, and drum-motor rollers, with drives mounted centrally or at the end.
- Performance: Capable of linear speeds exceeding 2.0 m/s, supporting throughput of over 10,000 packages per hour.
- Product Compatibility: Handles various items such as plastic totes, boxes, cartons, padded envelopes, bagged products, and standard envelopes.
These systems are ideal for applications requiring high-speed and reliable product transportation.
ZLP Conveyors
ZLP (zero line pressure) conveyors are designed to allow true buffering and queuing of products without compression or damage, making them suitable for handling delicate or varied items. Key features include:
- Operation: Each zone is equipped with its own motorised drive roller and sensor, allowing individual control and efficient queuing without pressure or crushing.
- Drive System: Utilises 24VDC motorised drive rollers (MDRs) with high torque motors specified for high stop/start cycling rates.
- Safety: Features full safety covers to prevent finger-trap points.
- Flexibility: Section lengths are designed to accommodate product length, and the system can include pack tuners, bends, lifts, and transfers for a fully functioning cell.
ZLP conveyors are particularly effective in applications requiring controlled gaps between products and efficient queuing and buffering.
Pallet Conveyors
Engineered for heavy-duty applications, pallet conveyors are designed to move pallets and other heavy objects efficiently. Key features include:
- Construction: Fabricated and welded for durability and reliability.
- Load Capacity: Designed to handle loads up to 10 tonnes.
- Drive Mechanism: Chain-driven rollers powered by inverter-controlled AC drives.
- Customisation: Available with a full range of options to create a functioning line tailored to specific needs.
These conveyors are suitable for handling all types of pallets and heavy-duty loads, making them ideal for robust material handling requirements.
Special Components
Axiom GB also offers a range of special components to enhance and customise conveyor systems. These include:
- Wedge Conveyors: Available in ZLP or multi-belt configurations.
- Bends: Options include roller, ZLP, or belt bends, depending on the product to be carried.
- Inclines and Spirals: Designed to raise or lower products within a minimal footprint.
- Merge Sections: Allowing multiple streams to merge into a single outfeed.
- Multi-Band Conveyors: Offered in ‘O’-belt or cambelt options.
- Cross-Transfers: Can incorporate pack turning with the cross-transfer.
These components are integral to creating a comprehensive material handling system tailored to specific operational requirements.
Each of these conveyor systems and components is designed to address specific material handling challenges, enhancing productivity and efficiency in warehouse operations.
Why Choose Axiom for Your Conveyor Systems
By choosing Axiom, you can improve your warehouse efficiency and throughput. Bespoke conveyor systems are a game-changer for warehouse operations. If you’re looking for a conveyor system, contact Axiom today. Let us help you improve your warehouse operations today.