All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(1012 products available)
Overhead trolley conveyors come in several configurations to meet the needs of their diverse industrial applications. These types differ mainly in design, load-carrying capacity, and motion. Common types include the following:
These conveyors are characterized by their simple, linear flat tracks. Workpieces fitted into holders or suspended from hooks move from one workstation to another through them. Flat track systems are mostly used for lightweight items and short travel distances in industries such as assembly and packaging.
A key feature of these conveyors is their ability to navigate corners and curves. Whereas straight-track systems lack flexibility for complex plant layouts, curved track conveyors can make sharp turns and adjust elevations. They are often used in bottling plants as well as in other operations involving the movement of medium-weight products through winding routes.
These systems consist of two parallel tracks: a powered track and a free track. A driven chain powers the trolleys along the first track while the second one permits trolleys to coast freely. This feature enables products to be accumulated, diverted, or released as needed, making power-and-free conveyors popular for batch processing in the automotive and heavy manufacturing industries.
Single rail enclosures characterize enclosed track systems, providing increased protection and guide stability to trolleys. These tracks are best suited for confined spaces as well as for the handling of small and medium-sized parts. Due to their efficiency, enclosed track conveyors are commonly used in powder coating, painting, and material handling.
Unlike other systems, which mainly consist of complex tracks, conveyors are built around a single rail. They have high structural simplicity, especially for vertical and horizontal movements. Monorail systems are widely used in automotive manufacturing and heavy industry because they can carry very heavy loads.
Therefore, these systems are used to transport parts from one workstation to another in order to integrate many parts of this process without having to do it manually. Examples of these parts include metal parts, molds, and tools. Manufacturing involves moving heavy and awkwardly shaped materials, making overhead systems ideal for moving these items.
These conveyer systems are extensively utilized in car body assembly at various points in the production of automobiles. The system enables auto parts such as engines, chassis, and body frames to move through different manufacturing stations. This ease facilitates assembly line efficiency, optimizing production speed, and hence improving safety.
Application in this industry largely revolves around product distribution and packaging. Bottles, cans, and packaged foods move through conveyor systems used in warehousing and before delivery. Therefore, such systems are crucial during processing, and their application helps reduce labor and improve the efficiency of warehouse operations.
Therefore, the pharmaceutical industry prefers these systems to meet precision and hygiene standards. Medications, medical equipment, and sterile devices are moved by overhead conveyors in this industry. Hence, some key factors that necessitate the choice of these systems are routine sanitation and contamination prevention.
Overhead trolley conveyor systems find a niche application in the handling of bulk raw materials, such as the coal, steel, and cement industries. The systems used in these industries are robust to carry heavy loads such as metal structures, mineral ores, and fabricated parts. Besides, the enclosed design of these systems provides protection against environmental factors such as dust and debris.
The installation of these trolley conveyor systems is an involved process that requires careful planning, as well as proper execution.
The first step involves conducting a thorough examination of the area to establish the required track layout. Afterward, the track should be assembled according to the layout, followed by mounting the track to the overhead structure. The drive system and trolleys are also set up at this stage. Installation should be followed by a structural integrity check, after which a test run should be performed to examine its functionality. Finally, worker training on the operation and safety of the systems is done.
These systems must be frequently maintained to function properly over time, especially because they are used in industrial applications.
The tracks and trolleys should be inspected regularly for any signs of wear or misalignment. But users should avoid this wear by cleaning the tracks as fast as possible. In addition, lubricating the trolleys and tracks contributes to smooth movement.
Wear components such as wheels and rollers should be replaced regularly to avoid system failure. Drive components should also be examined for wear and hence need replacement. Periodic inspections of electrical systems help detect potential issues early. Installation of protective covers on exposed parts also minimizes damage from dust and debris.
Overhead trolley conveyors are effective systems suitable for moving bulky and large materials in an enclosed space. They save floor space, provide smooth movement, and allow flexible routing possibilities. Quick installation requirements are also an attractive feature for industries that require material handling systems.
Several industries have taken up the use of these systems. These industries include automotive, manufacturing, food, pharmaceuticals, and heavy industries due to their efficiency and ability to enhance operations. The smooth and versatile design of overhead conveyors makes them highly applicable, especially in industries with complex processes or space limitations. Furthermore, the conveyor system for trolleys ease of maintenance and robustness add to their lifespan and make them attractive for many industrial operations.
It is noteworthy that there comes a time when businesses need to think of replacing their existing conveyor systems. Businesses need to understand the key workload capacity, available space, and future scalability. As more products are transported, larger systems will be more appropriate at some point.
Outdated technology also impacts system efficiency, especially if modern systems offer better energy-saving features. Moreover, new safety standards require better protection measures for the staff and equipment. Tracking costs must also be considered to eliminate or avoid further expenses through unplanned downtime, maintenance, and operating costs.
These systems improve the movement of materials within the industry, hence reducing transportation times. They automate the transportation process and hence lead to better productivity. The swift and sure flow of bulky materials, like parts, results in operational efficiency.
Since the systems run overhead, precious floor space is spared for other purposes such as storage or workstations. The ability to suspend loaded materials from the ceiling eliminates the hassle of maneuvering around obstacles and utilizing all available vertical space.
The systems remove the need for manual labor in an industry when used, reducing worker fatigue caused by heavy lifting. This system reduces workplace accidents associated with the handling of heavy and awkwardly shaped items. Moreover, the belt conveyor idler runs smoothly, thus providing less chance of damage to products or injury to workers.
Built to endure heavy use, these systems handle large and bulky items with ease. Also, as much effort as possible is put into the construction of these systems to enable them to withstand harsh work environments, such as those found in the manufacturing sector.
Commonly, these systems can easily be fitted into various configurations to meet one's specific needs. Inclined and curved tracks are easily incorporated to make the systems suitable for the ever-changing industrial process. They are flexible in that they are compatible with various industries, including automotive, food production, and pharmaceuticals.
A1: Trolleys move loads along overhead tracks powered by electric motors, manipulating items smoothly.
A2: These systems are popular in manufacturing, automotive, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and heavy industries for efficient material handling.
A3: They are generally designed for indoor use but can be adapted for outdoor use with weather-resistant materials.
A4: By minimizing manual lifting and automating transport, they reduce worker strain and the risk of injuries associated with heavy lifting.
A5: Conveyors can be manually, electrically, pneumatically, or magnetically powered, each suitable for specific workload and efficiency needs.
