Material handling belts often play a crucial role in the manufacturing systems that operate on automatic systems. They are a safe and efficient way to move parts in from one point to another point in a warehouse. A material handling belt can also move parts through automated systems in a manufacturing system. But, how do you know which material handling belt is best for you? Here’s some help.
Functioning or operation of the material handling belt
This entirely depends on your requirement. Therefore, before you step out to purchase a material handling belt, make sure you have clarity on the purpose of its function. Transferring of material usually falls under two broad categories: feeding and conveying. Understanding the difference between the two is essential to decide which material handling belt is best for you. While conveying simply means moving material from point A to point B, feeding is more complex and time-sensitive in terms of the material amount that has to be moved. So, when you pick a material handling belt, make sure you are aware of this difference.
Environmental factors
To make proper selection of a material handling belt, several environmental factors need to be considered. Some of the environmental factors include the following.
- The temperature
- Corrosive vapor
- The presence of vacuum or pressure at the discharge, inlet, or both the places
- High levels of humidity
- Vibration
Sometimes, these environmental factors can get combined with the characteristics of the material and cause handling problems. With some environmental factors, you might have to get some additional safety measures onboard.
Cost of the product
Like every other purchase you make, cost also has a crucial role to play while buying a material handling belt. While some companies will provide you reliability, lower maintenance cost, and less energy consumption in exchange for a substantial long-term cost, others might ask you to make an initial investment. When you purchase a material handling belt, the cost of the product must be discussed with the potential supplier to measure the feasibility. Having this discussion at the beginning can save you and the supplier a lot of time and energy.
Consider service history
If you have an existing material handling belt and wish to replace it, you must not overlook the service history of the provider. If you have experienced problems with reliability in the past, you must put them into consideration and think of ways to combat the issues. Only getting a machine with a different brand name will not solve your problem. You must talk to your vendor and ask them to propose solutions to your problems. If their solution convinces, only then go ahead with the purchase.