Conveyor systems are mechanical material handling equipment that moves a wide range of products. They were first invented to transport goods onto ships at ports but are now used in a variety of industries including mining, agriculture, automotive and the food and beverage industry.
Automation and efficiency
In any warehouse industry, efficiency can be increased by introducing automation. This is just as important in the food and beverage industry, having an automated conveyor system means operatives will not have to manually transport any food products. As these products are moved through the factory they can be processed in different ways. The refinement and extraction in beverage production, raw food handling and packaging for distribution. Automating systems with conveyor belts supports in achieving consistent results every day.
Without conveyor belt automation, workers have to handle food and beverages. This allows for inconsistency, human error and risk of injury. Studies show that over one third of workplace injuries occur while carrying heavy loads. All of which can lead to increased downtime and loss of production.
Hygiene and cleaning
Hygiene is a significant factor in food and beverage manufacturing, especially involving raw food production. Instead of manual handing or transportation in vehicles, conveyor belts are a far more hygienic option. They reduce contact time between workers and the food, greatly reducing the risk of food contamination.
Conveyor belts also reduce the risk of cross-contamination between different food and beverage products, with systems that include a chain conveyor, or other types, able to move different items in different directions.
Conveyor belts are customarily made of materials that are easy to clean, such as stainless steel or food-suitable plastic. It can be difficult for bacteria to stick to the surface of conveyor belts as they are designed to be smooth and seamless. They have fewer crevices and joints than other types of equipment, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth and makes them easier to clean. A modular conveyor is a particularly good fit for food production.
Conveyor systems are excellent investments that help food and beverage production companies save on labour costs, improve processes and productivity and maintain food quality standards.
We have a wide range of conveyor belts available suitable for the food and beverage industry amongst others, if you would like to discuss your needs with our expert team, please get in touch on 01623 424 442 or sales@asmechsystems.co.uk
