Conveyor-to-conveyor, Conveyor to machine or Machine to conveyor
transfers
Butt end transfer
A butt end transfer is when two conveyors are literally put together in
line in such a manner that one chain is short of touching the other chain by
at least 1/4". A dead plate or small rollers are placed between the gap
to allow the product to run or be pushed across. It is not advisable to use
the dead plate transfer for the following applications:
- Unstable packages with a difficult shape and/or high center of
gravity.
- Conveyor speeds above 150 feet per minute.
- Package is shorter than the dead plate or transfer roller such that
the package will hang up and wait for the next package to push it off.
- Packages whose base has sharp edges.
Twin sided driven belt conveyors can be used to grip most types of
containers (especially with vertical side faces) and laterally carry them
over the dead spot on the butt end transfer. Using this technique,
high-speed transfers can be accomplished under specific conditions.
Side transfer
A side transfer is when two conveyors are placed side by side so that the
package is guided via angled guide rails from one conveyor onto the other.
This insures that the package will be controlled and powered from one
conveyor onto the next. The items one should consider when designing side
transfers are:
- The gap between chains should never exceed 1/8" (3 mm).
- The downstream conveyor should be about 1/32" to 1/16" (1
mm) lower than the upstream conveyor for good transfer.
- The angle of cross transfer should not be greater than 15 degrees.
For difficult shapes or higher centers of gravity less than 10 degrees
is advisable.
- Guide rail shape can be critical for difficult shapes.
- Conveyor speed differentials can be very critical. Minimize speed
differentials.
- Because to the angled transfer to the conveyor pull, side forces on
the container or input can be substantial and effect performance.
S-curve transfer
A S-curve transfer is when two conveyors run parallel together in an
elongated S form so that the guide rails are straight and the conveyors flex
at the transfer. This insures that the package will be controlled and
powered from one conveyor onto the next in line with minimal side forces and
maximum control. Although, this type of conveyor is more expensive than the
traditional side transfer, the control for difficult shapes is superior and
guide rail change over to other sizes is quicker and more accurate. The
items one should consider when designing S-transfers are:
- The gap between chains should never exceed 1/8" (6 mm).
- The downstream conveyor should be about 1/32" to 1/16" (1
mm) lower than the upstream conveyor for good transfer.
- Conveyor speed differentials are a minor consideration.
- The side flex radii should exceed minimum chain specifications. Only
side flex conveyor chains can be used.
- The idle and drive ends should be straight sections for about 12
inches.
- Consider clean design and easy cleaning, since this design requires
more maintenance.
