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How to Choose Between an Angle Conveyor and a Z Conveyor Configuration

By March 27, 2017July 27th, 2020No Comments

The Difference Between Using an Angle Conveyor and a Z Conveyor

Dynacon incline conveyor for parts conveying.

Angle Conveyor

Conveyors can have the ability to operate in a horizontal, incline, angle or Z style configuration.  When you need to get product to a higher elevation you can choose between an angle conveyor (think of a hockey stick configuration) or a Z style conveyor (some people refer to it as a swan neck configuration).  Before making your choice, take the time to compare the benefits of using the most common, an angle conveyor, and a non-standard Z Style conveyor.

Most continuous belt conveyors have the ability to operate in an angle configuration.  But, in order to run one continuous belt in a Z configuration it must be a non-tensioned belt.  In addition to having the ability to operate in both an angle and a Z configuration, non-tensioned belts offer a cost savings.  Cost of ownership savings are experienced with non-tensioned belts because they are self-tracking, maintenance-free and do not require regular replacement.

Z Conveyor

The end of the conveyor where the product is conveyed to is also the motorized end of the conveyor, which is commonly referred to as the drive module.  The drive module contains the shaft, bearings, motor, sprockets and pillow blocks; therefore, making it the heaviest part of the conveyor.  On an angle conveyor, a leg support at the end of the conveyor is needed in order to properly support the weight of the drive module.  The placement of the leg support at the end of the conveyor makes it impossible to place a box or work table underneath the conveyor to properly receive the conveyed product.  On the contrary, a Z configuration allows the leg support to be set back a few feet, which enables the cantilevered drive module to deliver the conveyed parts to the center of the box or work table, which is the preferred drop off location.

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Marcie Palmer
Marcie Palmer
Marketing Manager at Dynamic Conveyor
With experience in almost every area of business from HR, sales, operations and marketing, Marcie has a very strategic approach to business and a passion for connecting people with solutions. Prior to joining Dynamic Conveyor as the Marketing Manager, she was owner of Champion Resources, a contract marketing agency working with small businesses. She also spent 15 years in the distribution industry where she established and executed on sales and marketing strategies that developed strong brands and capitalized on all channels of marketing. With her well-rounded background and a track record of fostering brand success, Marcie is a vital asset to the Dynamic Conveyor team. Her strategic thinking and passion for connecting people with conveyor solutions continue to drive marketing excellence. In her free time, Marcie enjoys spending time with family, golf and travel.
Marcie Palmer
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