Warehouse automation refers to the use of technology and machinery to perform storage and movement of goods with minimal human intervention. This innovative approach is transforming industries by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the accuracy of operations. Key sectors reaping these benefits include manufacturing, retail, and distribution. By automating processes, businesses can handle larger volumes with greater precision, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.

Enhancing Workflow With Heavy-Duty Conveyors

Heavy-duty conveyors are crucial in optimizing the workflow and productivity of industrial plants. These robust systems are designed to handle large volumes and heavy loads typical in sectors like automotive, mining, and construction materials. By streamlining the movement of raw materials and finished goods, heavy-duty conveyors reduce manual labor, cut down on transit times, and minimize the risk of workplace injuries. Their impact on operational efficiency is profound, allowing industries to meet high production demands with consistency and reliability.

Integration of Industrial Conveyors in Automated Warehouses

Integrating industrial conveyors into automated warehouses can significantly enhance operational efficiency. Belt conveyors can be adapted to fit the specific needs of a warehouse, ensuring smooth and continuous movement of materials. This integration helps in creating a cohesive environment where materials are moved swiftly from one point to another, reducing bottlenecks and improving overall performance. Additionally, advanced sensors and control systems can be used to manage the flow of goods, optimizing the use of space and resources.

Custom Conveyor Solutions from Materials Handling Equipment

At Materials Handling Equipment (MHE), we specialize in providing custom conveyors tailored to meet the unique needs of various industries. Our expertise in designing bespoke solutions allows us to address specific challenges such as space constraints, unique product handling requirements, and integration with existing systems. Factors that make us the ideal choice include our commitment to quality, our innovative design capabilities, and our extensive experience. Whether you need a modified belt conveyor for a food processing plant or a rugged drag chain conveyor for mining operations, we have the skills and technology to deliver high-performance solutions.

Our other conveyor options include:

• Bucket elevators
• Screw conveyors
• Apron conveyors
• Pan conveyors

Why Choose MHE Custom Conveyors?

Choosing our custom conveyors means opting for reliability, efficiency, and precision. We understand the critical nature of material handling in industrial settings and provide solutions that enhance operational flow and productivity. Our conveyors are built to withstand the toughest environments, providing long-term performance and minimal maintenance. By partnering with us, industries can achieve a seamless integration of automated systems that are crucial for staying competitive in today’s fast-paced market.

Elevate Your Industrial Efficiency

Are you ready to transform your industrial operations through a state-of-the-art conveyor system? Contact Materials Handling Equipment today to discover how our custom conveyors can streamline your processes and boost your productivity. Don’t settle for less—choose the best in the business for a smarter, faster, and more efficient workflow.

 

In the realm of agro-processing, your choice of conveying equipment can significantly impact your plant’s operational efficiency and product quality. Bucket conveyors, also known as bucket elevators, stand out as a superior choice for various heavy-duty agricultural applications thanks to the many unique advantages they offer when compared to other types of industrial conveyors.

Why Do Bucket Elevators Stand Out?

There is no shortage of reasons why bucket elevators are the preferred choice of agricultural plants. They offer:

Versatility & Flexibility

Bucket elevators are highly versatile and can handle a wide range of materials, from grains and seeds to fertilizers and feed. Their adaptability makes them ideal for diverse agro-processing needs.

Gentle Handling of Products

One of the key advantages of bucket elevators is their gentle handling of products. Unlike other conveyors that may cause damage or degradation, bucket elevators ensure the integrity of the product, a crucial factor in maintaining quality in agro-processing.

Space Efficiency

Vertical conveyors like bucket elevators are particularly space-efficient and can be installed where floor space is limited. They can easily move products between various levels of a processing facility.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Bucket elevators are known for their durability and minimal maintenance requirements, reducing downtime and maintenance costs in agro-processing operations.

Common Agricultural Applications

Bucket elevators are commonly used for agricultural applications at:

• Grain handling and storage facilities
• Seed processing plants
• Fertilizer production and distribution centers
• Feed mills and pet food manufacturing plants

Materials Handling Equipment Offers Heavy-Duty Bucket Elevators

Since 1927, Materials Handling Equipment has been providing custom-designed, heavy-duty conveyor equipment to companies throughout the agricultural industry. We’ve become the trusted choice for conveyor manufacturing by producing reliable products that consistently improve plant productivity.

Contact us today if you would like to schedule a consultation with our team and discuss the bucket elevators we offer.

In the paper and pulp industry, efficiency is paramount. Every step of the production process must be optimized to ensure maximum output without compromising on quality. Advanced conveyor systems can play a crucial role in streamlining paper production. By utilizing customized conveyors designed for the unique requirements of the paper and pulp industry, companies can optimize their production process, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.  

Types of Conveyors Used in Paper Production

In the paper and pulp industry, several types of conveyors can be utilized to modernize the production process:

• Custom screw conveyors are commonly used to transport materials such as wood chips and pulp to various stages of the paper-making process. These conveyors are designed to handle the specific requirements of the industry, such as elevated temperatures and abrasive materials.
• Bucket elevators are another essential conveyor type in paper production. They are used to lift materials like recycled paper to various levels of the production facility. This helps optimize space and improve overall efficiency.
• Drag conveyors are also prevalent in the paper and pulp industry. They are used to convey materials such as ash and bark, which are byproducts of the paper-making process. Drag conveyors are designed to handle heavy loads and are essential for keeping the production process running smoothly.

Areas of Paper Production Utilizing Industrial Conveyors

Industrial conveyors are utilized during various steps in the paper production process. In the pulping stage, conveyors are used to transport raw materials such as wood chips and recycled paper to the pulping machines. During the paper-making process, conveyors are used to move the wet paper through the drying and pressing stages. Additionally, conveyors are used to transport finished rolls of paper to the packaging area.

Benefits of Customized Conveyors in Paper Production

Customized conveyors are designed to meet the specific requirements of the industry and can handle the unique challenges of the paper-making process, including hot temperatures, abrasive materials, and heavy loads. Customized conveyors also help optimize space and improve efficiency. By designing conveyors that are tailored to the layout of the production facility, manufacturers can minimize the need for manual handling and reduce the risk of accidents.

Partnering With an Experienced Conveyor Manufacturer

Enlisting the services of an experienced conveyor manufacturer is a wise move for paper and pulp companies. A manufacturer that specializes in creating customized solutions for the industry can provide expert advice on the best conveyor types and configurations for specific production needs. Additionally, an experienced manufacturer can offer ongoing support and maintenance services, ensuring that the conveyors remain operational and efficient.

One of the Most Experienced Conveyor Manufacturers in the Industry

If experience matters to your company, look to Materials Handling Equipment. We’ve been delivering custom, heavy-duty conveyor solutions since 1927, and we can provide a conveyor system that will improve productivity at your paper facility. We specialize in the manufacturing of conveying equipment that can operate reliably while being subjected to some of the most severe conditions possible, which is why we’ve provided solutions for some of the biggest names in pulp and paper.

Contact Materials Handling Equipment today to schedule a consultation with our team.

Chemical handling requires not only precision but also safety measures that protect both workers and materials. This is because the unique properties and characteristics of different chemicals require specialized handling to prevent accidents, spills, and exposure. For these reasons, custom chemical conveyors are meticulously designed to minimize the risk of accidents and enhance overall safety. Investing in custom conveyors not only mitigates potential dangers but also demonstrates a commitment to compliance with safety regulations.

Types of Conveyors for Chemical Handling

A variety of custom conveyors are commonly used for chemical handling, including screw conveyors, bucket elevators, drag conveyors, and apron conveyors. Chemical-resistant conveyors are designed to withstand exposure to corrosive substances. They are constructed with materials that resist degradation, ensuring durability and longevity. These conveyors are ideal for transporting chemicals safely within a facility.

Sealed conveyors are also commonly used for chemicals, as they provide an additional layer of protection by preventing the escape of hazardous materials. These conveyors are tightly sealed to contain any potential leaks, minimizing the risk of exposure. They are crucial for handling volatile substances securely.

Benefits of Customized Conveyors for Chemical Applications

Some of the key benefits custom conveyors offer for the chemical-handling process include:

Enhanced Safety

Conveyor customization allows for precise adaptation to the specific requirements of chemical processes. This ensures that materials are transported securely, minimizing the risk of accidents and exposure. This isn’t possible with “cookie-cutter” conveyors.

Tailored Solutions

One size does not fit all in chemical handling. Custom conveyors can be tailored to the unique needs of your operations, ensuring efficiency and safety at every step of the process.

Compliance With Regulations

Using customized conveyors ensures compliance with chemical industry regulations and standards.

Proper Component Selection

It’s essential that the application is studied carefully and communication with the user about the characteristics of the material be well known.

Offering Custom Chemical Conveyors Since 1927

Materials Handling Equipment has become a leader in custom conveyor manufacturing by providing tailored solutions that ensure safety and efficiency. When you partner with us, we’ll collaborate with your chemical engineers through every part of the process—from design to installation to service. Our engineers can determine the right components to be used, as our special alloys are critical to ensure a reliable conveyor. Additionally, our conveyors are completely custom, which means your new chemical conveyor will fit your plant perfectly without any modifications.

Contact Materials Handling Equipment today to schedule an initial consultation with our team.

The agricultural industry relies heavily on industrial conveyors which, when used effectively, can optimize efficiency and ensure seamless operations. These conveyors can streamline the complex processes involved in handling, transporting, and processing crops. From the initial stages of planting and harvesting to the subsequent sorting, cleaning, and packaging, conveyors provide a continuous and controlled movement of agricultural goods.

The value of agricultural conveyors lies not only in enhancing productivity but also in minimizing manual labor, reducing the risk of damage to delicate crops, and maintaining the quality of harvested produce. As the agricultural industry evolves, conveyors remain a cornerstone, ensuring that the journey from farm to market is efficient, reliable, and optimized for success.

Types of Agricultural Conveyors

Three types of conveyors that are most commonly utilized for agricultural applications are bucket elevators, screw conveyors, and belt conveyors. Belt conveyors are ideal for bulk material transport and can facilitate the seamless movement of grains and crops. Screw conveyors can provide a number of process features for point-to-point applications.  Bucket elevators are essential for vertical transport, as industrial-duty elevators efficiently lift crops and allow for a smooth flow in processing.

Custom Solutions, Heavy-Duty Performance

In the agricultural sector, one size rarely fits all. Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) recognizes this, which is why we offer custom, heavy-duty conveyors designed to elevate agricultural operations. Our tailored solutions are engineered to handle the rigors of the field while providing reliability and durability.

When you choose a custom, heavy-duty conveyor from MHE, you will enjoy unparalleled benefits, including:

• Enhanced durability – Our agricultural conveyors are made using heavy-duty components and custom drives that can withstand the most challenging agricultural environments.
• Optimized performance – Because we offer custom conveyors, they are tailor-made for specific crops and your company’s unique processing needs.

Look to MHE for Agricultural Conveyor Solutions

In a dynamic agricultural environment, MHE stands as a beacon of innovation. If you’d like to learn more about our custom conveyor solutions, contact us today to arrange a consultation with our team.

In the world of industrial material handling, the choice between custom conveyors and off-the-shelf options can significantly impact long-term costs and operational efficiency. While you may save some time by choosing a ready-made conveyor for your plant, that’s where the benefits end, and you could be making a decision that will negatively impact your company’s productivity and flexibility.

Limitations of “Cookie-Cutter” Conveyors

Off-the-shelf conveyor systems may seem convenient, but their generic design often falls short of meeting specific industrial demands. For example, the conveyor you choose may not be a perfect fit for your operation, requiring adjustments on your end that add time to the process. In many cases, a one-size-fits-all approach hinders rather than enhances operations.

The Custom Advantage: Tailored Solutions for Your Goals

Since 1927, Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) has been a trusted choice for heavy-duty custom conveyors that can withstand severe conditions. We design and manufacture custom conveyors based on the specific needs of our clients. We’ll consult with your engineers to gain a thorough understanding of your goals, allowing us to produce a conveyor that precisely meets your needs. This personalized approach eliminates unnecessary costs and enhances operational efficiency.

Types of Custom Conveyors Offered by MHE

We offer a diverse range of custom conveyors, including:

• Screw conveyors that are ideal for precise material handling
• Drag conveyors that efficiently move materials with varying particle sizes
• Bucket elevators that carry bulk material vertically
• Apron conveyors that can be used for light, medium, and heavy-duty applications
• Belt conveyors that can carry materials long distances and up inclines

Unparalleled Reliability

MHE’s custom conveyors outperform those produced by our competitors due to meticulous design and manufacturing processes. By utilizing custom drives, wear-resistant alloys, heavy-duty Ni-Hard bearings, and other upgrades, MHE ensures reliability in the most severe conditions.

Learn More

Partnering with MHE guarantees you’ll receive a custom conveyor that is finely tuned to your industrial requirements. Contact us today if you’d like a tailored solution that transforms your material handling operations.

In the ever-evolving landscape of material handling, technological advancements have reshaped the industry, with robotics playing a pivotal role. However, while robotics has greatly impacted material handling in general, there are still applications for which traditional conveyor systems are better suited. Let’s explore the benefits and limitations of robotics when it comes to material handling.

The Versatility of Robotics in Material Handling

Robotics have revolutionized material handling functions, offering unparalleled versatility. From precise picking and packing to seamless sorting and stacking, these automated marvels adeptly handle diverse tasks to provide a seamless workflow. Increased speed, precision, and consistency are just a few benefits that robotics can provide for businesses. By automating routine tasks, companies experience improved productivity and reduced operational costs.

Limitations in Industrial Conditions

While robotics excel in controlled environments, they face challenges in punishing conditions. Harsh industrial settings can strain their functionality, as many material-handling robots are not engineered to withstand extreme conditions involving elevated temperatures and extreme corrosion or abrasion. Therefore, businesses must assess the environmental demands and consider alternative solutions that will deliver optimum performance.

Heavy-Duty Conveyors vs. Robotics

In the realm of industrial material handling, the debate between heavy-duty conveyors and robotics is brief. Despite the technological advancements in robotics, heavy-duty conveyors remain the preferred choice in demanding conditions. And if your needs include moving large quantities of industrial materials in challenging conditions, there’s no replacement for the performance offered by heavy-duty conveyors from Materials Handling Equipment (MHE)—a leader in conveyor manufacturing since 1927. This is because of:

• The durability and reliability of our products – Our heavy-duty conveyors stand the test of time, providing unparalleled durability. In punishing conditions, where robotics may falter, our conveyors consistently deliver reliable performance.
• Customization options – Materials Handling Equipment takes pride in offering a range of custom conveyors, including screw conveyors, drag conveyors, apron conveyors, belt conveyors, pan conveyors, and bucket elevators. Our conveyors are tailored to meet specific industry needs and deliver optimal functionality.
• Our conveyor manufacturing expertise – We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our commitment to providing exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design sets us apart from the competition.
• The variety of industries we serve – Our custom conveyors are utilized by companies representing a wide array of industries, including agriculture, cement, chemicals, construction, steel, paper and pulp, mining and minerals, and power and utilities.

The MHE Difference

Look to MHE if your facility needs a custom conveyor that has been engineered to fit your precise needs and will perform reliably for decades. We utilize custom-engineered drive components made from heavy-duty materials, and the performance offered by our conveyors in demanding conditions is unmatched. In fact, our industrial-duty conveyors compare favorably to the heavy-duty conveyors offered by the competition, and many of our products are still in use more than 50 years after delivery.

Learn More

Would you like additional information about the heavy-duty industrial conveyors we offer? If so, contact Materials Handling Equipment today.

In the hectic world of industrial operations, efficiency is vital. The never-ending quest for increased productivity has paved the way for innovative solutions, and heavy-duty industrial conveyors have played a notable role. Material handling equipment has become an indispensable tool used by a wide array of industries, offering important benefits that elevate operational efficiency to new heights.

Optimizing Efficiency in Industrial Facilities

When it comes to handling substantial loads and maintaining seamless operations, heavy-duty industrial conveyors are second to none. These mechanical workhorses are specifically designed to transport bulky materials, components, and products within industrial setups. Their robust construction and high load-bearing capacities make them essential for optimizing production processes and reducing labor-intensive tasks.

Types of Heavy-Duty Industrial Conveyors

Different industries can benefit from the advantages of heavy-duty industrial conveyors by selecting from a range of specialized types, including:

• Belt conveyors, which can efficiently transport bulk materials over long distances and offer the most economical cost per foot
• Screw conveyors, which are ideal for handling dry, granular materials like cement and chemicals with accurate control of feed
• Chain conveyors, which are often used for heavier loads and at elevated temperatures with flexible installations
• Bucket elevators, which lift bulk materials vertically
• Apron and pan conveyors, which are designed to handle heavy, abrasive, and/or high-temperature materials in complex applications

Industries That Benefit From Heavy-Duty Industrial Conveyors

Several industries have enjoyed notable improvements in productivity because of the utilization of properly designed, heavy-duty industrial conveyors. They include:

• Agriculture – Conveyors help to efficiently transport crops and raw materials for processing, reducing manual labor and ensuring quicker processing.
• Cement – Conveyors handle raw materials and finished products, optimizing manufacturing processes and minimizing downtime.
• Chemicals – Conveyors allow for the safe transport of hazardous chemicals, streamlining production and reducing exposure risks for workers.
• Construction – Conveyors move heavy building materials effortlessly, enhancing construction site efficiency.
• Mining and minerals – Conveyors handle bulk materials, increasing extraction and processing efficiency in mines.
• Steel – Heavy-duty conveyors are used to transport raw materials and finished steel products, contributing to a smoother production process.
• Power and utilities – Conveyors can be used to elevate coal and biomass for power generation, enhancing energy production efficiency.
• Paper and pulp – Conveyors streamline paper production, reducing manual handling and increasing throughput.

Offering Undeniable Benefits

The use of heavy-duty industrial conveyors has been pivotal in elevated efficiency and productivity. Conveyors not only facilitate the seamless flow of materials but also improve overall operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and employee safety. By selecting from an array of conveyor types tailored to specific industry needs, businesses can optimize their workflows and boost output. From agriculture to paper, heavy-duty conveyors have helped transform all types of industries.

The Conveyor Manufacturing Experts

Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) has been the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty conveyors in the United States since 1927. We offer custom conveyors designed to meet specific demands, and we can adapt our product lines for a wide range of industries. Our expertise lies in the production of specialized conveyors designed for unique services. Our conveyors provide impeccable performance even in the most intense conditions, including extreme temperatures, abrasion, and corrosion.

Would you like to learn more about the heavy-duty conveyors we offer? If so, contact Materials Handling Equipment today to schedule a consultation.

Drag conveyors and screw conveyors are popular options for bulk material handling in a variety of industries, and while both might be able to accomplish a company’s goals, they’re not always interchangeable options. Drag conveyors and screw conveyors both offer advantages and disadvantages, and often the best option depends on the type of material being moved.

How Do These Conveyors Function?

Before we start outlining the potential benefits and drawbacks of drag conveyors and screw conveyors, let us establish how they function:

Drag Conveyors

Drag conveyors move bulk materials through a channel using a single- or double-stranded chain of paddles, or “flights,” mounted to the chain. A drag chain conveyor utilizes a single strand of chain while a drag flight conveyor typically includes dual or double strands of chain with a flight mounted between the chains.  They can have an open top or be fully enclosed, and they can handle inclines effectively. The ample amount of space between the paddles often allows for easy loading.  Drag Conveyors can also be top or side loaded.

Screw Conveyors

Screw conveyors are similar to tubular drag conveyors in that they also move bulk materials through a tube or channel.  This channel is referred to as a U-trough. A rotating auger, or screw, inside the tube pushes granular materials forward through the length of the tube. They’re most effective when horizontal and their use for inclines requires special efficiency factors to insure capacities are met.

Which Conveyor Fits Your Company’s Needs?

As was mentioned previously, the determining factor between utilizing a drag conveyor or screw conveyor is usually the type of bulk material that needs to be moved. Because the blade of a screw conveyor rotates directly through the material in the tube, it can grind material down and cause blend separation. Therefore, screw conveyors are not ideal for delicate products. However, they’re extremely effective for many semi-solid materials, including animal feed, boiler ash, municipal solid waste, and other free-flowing bulk materials.

By contrast, drag conveyors pull or push bulk materials with no tumbling or agitation. They simply “drag” the material along. This makes them ideal for materials that would be negatively impacted by particle degradation and blend separation. Drag conveyors are also a viable option if you need a greater capacity than a screw conveyor can deliver.

The No. 1 Choice for Heavy-Duty Conveyors

While you’re trying to choose between a drag conveyor and a screw conveyor for your plant, there’s one decision that should be easy. Materials Handling Equipment is the wise choice for any type of industrial conveyor, as we’ve been perfecting our manufacturing process since 1927. While many conveyor manufacturers offer standard models that lack modification, we deliver multiple types of screw and drag conveyors that are customized to meet the specific needs of our clients.

Materials Handling Equipment is also the industry leader when it comes to conveyors that can perform reliably in extreme conditions. Our drag conveyors and screw conveyors are manufactured using heavy-duty components that can withstand severe abrasion, corrosion, and temperature. One of the byproducts of our dedication to ensuring the quality and durability of our products is conveyors that are still performing dependably more than 50 years after they were delivered.

Learn More About Our Drag Conveyors & Screw Conveyors

Make a reliable choice for your company’s needs. Contact Materials Handling Equipment today if you’d like to learn more about the custom conveyors we offer to businesses in a wide array of industries.

There are plenty of options when it comes to conveyors for bulk material, and two of the most common are belt conveyors and apron conveyors. Both of these conveyor categories offer advantages and drawbacks, and if you’re trying to decide which will best fit your company’s needs, there are plenty of questions that you need to ask. Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) has been manufacturing heavy-duty conveyors for some of the largest industrial companies in the U.S. since 1927, so we’re uniquely qualified to compare and contrast these two options.

Apron Conveyors

Apron conveyors—or pan conveyors, as some refer to them—consist of endless chains that are attached to overlapping and interlocking plates that form a surface that carries bulk materials without containers. They are used to move material to a crusher or other piece of equipment at a consistent rate. Apron feeders are especially adaptable and can handle many types and sizes of material.

Belt Conveyors

Belt conveyors are the simplest of material handling conveyors, as they consist of two or more pulleys (or drums) driving an endless loop belt that carries bulk material. There is at least one drive pulley that is powered and moves the belt, and idler pulleys help guide the belt.

Belt & Apron Conveyor Durability

This is where these two options diverge. Belt conveyors are the most common conveyor option, as they are ideal for retail, wholesale, manufacturing, and warehouse applications. Belt feeders can move items at a high rate of speed for long distances, so they can accommodate higher volumes. However, belt conveyors aren’t ideal for many heavy-duty applications where a belt won’t hold up and require consistent maintenance.

Apron conveyors, on the other hand, are in their element when being used in environments that feature extreme temperatures, abrasion, and corrosion. While they can’t operate at the same speed as belt conveyors, they are manufactured using components that can handle daily wear and tear from larger material and heavier loads. They’re also better able to withstand extreme-impact loading. And while apron conveyors typically require a higher capital investment, they offer an excellent return on investment due to their durability.

The Heavy-Duty Conveyor Specialists

Materials Handling Equipment isn’t just a leader in the conveyor manufacturing industry—we actually helped craft the Conveyor Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (CEMA) standards. We stand out from our competitors by offering custom conveyors—including belt and apron conveyors—that can be tailored to fit any need.

Additionally, we specialize in conveyors that will perform reliably in some of the most severe conditions possible. MHE conveyors feature internal heavy-duty Ni-Hard gravity take-up bearings, custom-engineered drive components, and easy-to-access points of entry for easier routine maintenance. These are just some of the reasons why leading companies from a range of industries, including construction, cement, steel, chemical, and mining, turn to us for their conveyor needs.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re trying to decide between a belt conveyor or an apron conveyor for your facility, enlist the help of the trusted professionals at Materials Handling Equipment. Contact us today if you’d like to learn more about the custom conveyors we offer.