An overhead conveyor track is a type of material handling system that uses a suspended track mounted above the floor to transport goods or materials. It is often used in industrial, manufacturing, and warehouse environments to move products through various stages of production, assembly, or storage. Here's a summary of its key features:
Overview:
- Purpose: Overhead conveyor tracks are designed to move products or materials along a predetermined path, reducing the need for floor space and allowing for efficient use of vertical space. This system is often used for assembly lines, paint booths, and other production processes.
- Layout: The track is typically mounted on the ceiling or high above the production floor, which minimizes the space needed on the ground level and keeps the workflow clear and organized.
Key Components:
Track Sections: The track is made up of straight and curved sections that are connected to form a continuous path. These sections are designed to support the movement of carts, trolleys, or carriers.
Carriers (Carts or Trolleys): These are the moving units that carry the materials or products along the track. They are typically equipped with rollers or wheels that move along the track.
Rollers or Wheels: These components are attached to the carriers and roll along the track. They facilitate the smooth movement of the products being transported.
Drive Mechanism: Powered by a motor, this system moves the conveyor. It often includes chains, belts, or cables that are connected to the carriers, driving them along the track.
Support Structure: The track is supported by a series of brackets, hangers, or beams that secure the system to the ceiling or overhead structure.
End Stops/Guides: These components are positioned at the ends of the track to guide or stop the carriers in a controlled manner.
Curves and Turns: Overhead conveyors often include curved sections, allowing the track to change direction or follow a complex path through the facility.
Advantages:
- Space Efficiency: By utilizing vertical space, overhead conveyors free up valuable floor space for other operations or equipment.
- Increased Workflow Efficiency: They allow for a continuous flow of materials, reducing manual handling and improving production speed.
- Flexibility: Overhead conveyors can be designed to follow a variety of complex paths, including turns, inclines, and elevation changes.
- Safety: With products moving above the floor, there's less chance of obstruction or interference with workers or other processes on the ground level.
Applications:
- Automotive Industry: Often used to move car parts through assembly lines.
- Paint and Coating: Common in industries where products need to be painted or coated while moving along the conveyor.
- Warehouse and Distribution: Helps transport goods in a compact, organized manner, especially for sorting and packing operations.
In summary, an overhead conveyor track is a highly efficient, space-saving system that moves materials or products through various stages of production or handling, providing flexibility, safety, and increased productivity in industrial environments.
