Use of conveyors in powder coating facilities
Powder coating is a popular finishing process used in many industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and furniture manufacturing. It involves the application of a fine powder material onto a surface. This powder material is then heated and cured to form a durable and attractive coating.
Powder coating facilities often face challenges when it comes to material handling and transportation. This is where overhead conveyors can be useful for the powder coating facility.
Overhead conveyors
An overhead conveyor is a type of conveyor system that uses a track or rail system installed above the production floor to transport materials or products. Overhead conveyors are commonly used in powder coating facilities. They offer several advantages over traditional conveyor systems, such as floor-mounted or roller conveyors.
The benefits of overhead conveyor systems
Overhead conveyors are ideal for transporting heavy or bulky items that would be difficult to move manually. This is especially important in powder coating facilities. For example, when items may be large, uniquely shaped, or have delicate surfaces that require careful handling. By suspending the items from an overhead conveyor, the weight is evenly distributed, reducing the risk of damage or deformation.
Secondly, overhead conveyors help to maximise floor space, which is often at a premium in manufacturing facilities. By using the space above the production floor, overhead conveyors can move materials and products. With a conveyor there is no interfering with other production processes or equipment. This also makes it easier to keep the production floor clean and organised, reducing the risk of contamination or accidents.
Finally, overhead conveyors can be configured to transport items through multiple stages of the powder coating process. Items can be loaded onto the overhead conveyor at the beginning of the process. They can then be transported through the powder coating booth, and moved to the curing oven. This helps to ensure that the items are consistently coated and minimises the risk of contamination or damage.
Types of overhead conveyor systems
There are several different types of overhead conveyors that can be used in powder coating facilities. The most common types include Power and Free, I-Beam and Monorail conveyor systems.
Power and Free Conveyor Systems
Power and free conveyor systems use a continuous chain that moves items along a track. Items are attached to the chain by means of trolleys that can be released at specific points along the track. This allows items to be stopped, diverted, or accumulated as needed.
I-Beam Conveyor Systems
I-beam conveyor systems use an overhead track that is supported by steel beams. The track can be configured in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of items. I-beam conveyor systems are commonly used in powder coating facilities. This is because they are durable, easy to install, and can support heavy loads.
Monorail Conveyor Systems
Monorail conveyor systems use an overhead chain that is enclosed in a track. Items are moved along by means of chain and flight bars that are suspended from the track. Enclosed track conveyor systems are ideal for transporting items through harsh environments, such as those found in the pre-treatment stages.
Let Junair help with an overhead conveyor system
Overhead conveyors are a valuable tool in powder coating facilities. They offer numerous benefits, such as increased safety, improved efficiency, and reduced contamination. By choosing the right type of overhead conveyor for their needs, powder coating facilities can improve their operations and deliver high-quality coatings to their customers.
To learn more about our overhead conveyor systems, get in touch. Junair can help build a solution that meets your factories needs.
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