Conveyor systems play a vital role in modern materials handling. From moving baggage through airports to transporting bulk materials, parcels, products and components through industrial environments, conveyors help businesses move goods safely, efficiently and consistently.
At Robson Handling Technology, we design, manufacture and install conveyor systems for businesses across a wide range of sectors, helping customers improve the way materials move through their operations.
What is a conveyor belt?
A conveyor is a mechanical handling system used to move materials, products or loads from one location to another.
With this technology in place. Operations no longer rely on manual movement. Instead conveyors offer a controlled and repeatable way to transport goods through a site.
So, where are conveyor belts used? Conveyor belts are are commonly used in:
What are conveyor systems?
A conveyor system is a complete materials handling setup made up of one or more conveyor belts. A conveyor system will connect different equipment to move items from one point to another. In a more complex operation, conveyors may be integrated with sortation, screening, weighing, loading, unloading or automated control systems.
These may include:
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Conveyor belts
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Rollers
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Drives
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Motors
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Frames
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Guards
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Sensors
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Chutes
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Controls
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Transfer points
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Loading and discharge areas
Parts of a conveyor belt
Now that we understand more about what a conveyor belt is, what they are used for and how they work together as part of a conveyor system, it’s time to consider the different parts of a conveyor belt. Understanding the key parts of a conveyor belt helps explain how the system works.
Parts of any conveyor belt typically include:
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Belt: The belt is the moving surface that carries the material. It may be made from rubber, PVC, fabric, modular plastic, steel or other specialist materials, depending on the application.
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Drive pulley: The drive pulley transfers power from the motor to the belt. This is what moves the belt and controls the direction of travel.
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Tail pulley: The tail pulley is usually positioned at the opposite end of the conveyor. It helps guide the belt and maintain the correct belt path.
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Motor and gearbox: The motor provides the power required to move the belt. A gearbox may be used to control speed and torque.
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Conveyor frame: The frame supports the conveyor structure. It needs to be strong enough to carry the load and suitable for the working environment.
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Rollers or idlers: Rollers or idlers support the belt and help it move smoothly. They can also help control belt tracking and reduce friction.
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Bearings: Bearings support rotating components such as rollers and pulleys, helping them move efficiently.
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Belt tensioning system: The tensioning system helps keep the belt at the correct tension. Incorrect tension can cause slippage, tracking issues or premature wear.
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Safety features: Guards, emergency stops and other safety features help protect operators and maintenance teams.
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Controls: The control system manages how the conveyor operates. This may include start and stop functions, speed control, sensors, alarms and integration with other equipment.
Benefits of conveyor systems
If you are planning on introducing or upgrading your intralogistics systems, Robson Handling is a trusted supplier and integration partner to thousands of clients. We can help you understand the benefits and considerations when choosing a conveyor system that suits your unique needs and requirements. Conveyor systems can offer a range of operational benefits, including:
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Improved material flow
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Reduced manual handling
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Increased efficiency
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Better use of space
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More consistent throughput
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Improved safety
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Reduced reliance on forklifts
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Easier integration with automated systems
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Support for high-volume operations
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Better control over movement and process timing
Reliable and efficient conveyor systems can help keep your operations moving safely and reliably, whilst minimising downtime and manual labour.
When should a conveyor system be upgraded?
Even a well-designed conveyor system will require upgrades as equipment ages, operational requirements change or new technology becomes available. Knowing when to upgrade a conveyor can help businesses reduce downtime, improve performance and avoid the higher costs associated with repeated breakdowns.
One of the clearest signs that a conveyor system needs attention is increasing downtime. If faults are becoming more frequent, repairs are taking longer or production is regularly being interrupted, older components may no longer be capable of delivering the required performance.
Businesses should also consider an upgrade when replacement parts become difficult to source. Obsolete motors, sensors, control panels or other parts of a conveyor may increase repair times and maintenance costs.
Other signs that an upgrade may be needed include:
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Frequent breakdowns or emergency repairs
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Rising maintenance and energy costs
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Worn or damaged parts of a conveyor belt
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Poor belt tracking or repeated slippage
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Outdated control systems
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New operational or safety requirements
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Limited integration with automation
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Changes to site layouts or production processes
An upgrade does not always mean replacing the entire system. Depending on how the conveyor belt works within the wider operation, it may be possible to modernise individual components, introduce new controls or redesign specific sections.
Need support with a conveyor system?
Whether you are looking to improve an existing process, replace ageing equipment or design a new conveyor system, choosing the right solution is essential.
A well-designed conveyor can improve efficiency, reduce handling risks and support long-term operational performance.
Robson Handling Technology supplies conveyor systems to customers across the UK and worldwide.
Contact our team today to discuss your conveyor system requirements.