Gravity Wheel Conveyor

Gravity wheel conveyors are a type of conveyor system that falls under the supply class Conveyors in the supply group Materials Handling Equipment. These conveyors are designed to transport materials or products using the force of gravity.

Gravity wheel conveyors consist of a series of wheels mounted on axles, which are placed at regular intervals along a frame. The frame is typically inclined at a slight angle, allowing gravity to assist in moving the materials or products along the conveyor.

When an item is placed on the conveyor, it will naturally roll down the inclined surface due to gravity. The wheels on the conveyor provide support and help to guide the item along the desired path. The speed at which the item moves is determined by the angle of the conveyor and the weight of the item.

Gravity wheel conveyors are commonly used in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities for handling lightweight to medium-weight items. They are particularly useful for transporting items with flat or smooth bottoms, such as cartons, boxes, and totes.

These conveyors offer several advantages, including:

1. Cost-effective: Gravity wheel conveyors are relatively inexpensive compared to powered conveyors, as they do not require motors or electrical components.

2. Low maintenance: Since gravity wheel conveyors do not have complex mechanical parts, they require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean.

3. Flexibility: Gravity wheel conveyors can be easily configured and modified to suit specific layout requirements. They can be straight or curved, and sections can be added or removed as needed.

4. Energy-efficient: As the name suggests, gravity wheel conveyors rely on gravity to move items, eliminating the need for additional energy consumption.

However, it's important to note that gravity wheel conveyors are not suitable for handling heavy or bulky items, as the weight may cause the wheels to become overloaded or the item to move too quickly. In such cases, powered conveyors or other material handling equipment may be more appropriate.

Overall, gravity wheel conveyors provide a simple and cost-effective solution for transporting lightweight to medium-weight items using the force of gravity.