Pallet Handling Conveyor Guide, Part 2: how to deal with pallets conveyed parallel to the rollers

Source from: http://www.cisco-eagle.com/systems/conveyors/conveyor-articles/pallet-conveyor-guide_2.htm

When conveying pallets on roller conveyors, you must take care to insure smooth movement on the rollers.

As discussed in Part I of this series, pallet runners should be conveyed perpendicular to the rollers. Pallet Orientation diagram (Pop-Up Information).

This is due reduced contact surface – it’s never desirable to place pallet runners parallel to the rollers. Admittedly, runners parallel is sometimes the only option available to you. If this is the case, some guidelines must be followed to insure the pallet will convey as smoothly as possible.

What if my runners are parallel, and I can't avoid it?

If runners-parallel is your only option, then the rollers should be set on very close centers to minimize potential conveying issues such as bouncing or rocking of pallet. When you convey a pallet with parallel runners, there should be a minimum of two rollers under each runner.

When conveying pallets with the runners parallel, a model 25-CREZD conveyor can be utilized quite successfully, as long as you observe the “two rollers per runner” rule. This conveyor can be specified with rollers on close centers. Both 3” and 5” roller centers are available.

If there are any questions or concerns as to whether a pallet will convey, it should be tested. Even though the test results may look good, actual conditions after final set-up in the plant may produce other issues.

Items such as broken boards, protruding nails, or old and worn out pallets, etc., could cause difficulties with the system.

If you have questions about this article, please contact us. If you want to inquire about a specific conveyor application, utilize our 24-hour response form or call customer service toll-free.