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Conveyor systems are used all over the world. They are used in manufacturing plants, warehouses, businesses, mines and many other places where it is necessary to move materials and products from one place to another. They save countless hours of physical labor as well as providing safety from injuries that can be incurred by those trying to physically move heavy items. There are a number of conveyor systems commonly used, however they are not a recent invention. Needing something to move large quantities of grain, it was first invented in the 1700's. From that date, to the present, their construction has been improved and their use extended to almost all areas of the business world. You will find the roller conveyor the most common system used. It consists of a number of round cylinders on a long surface. These cylinders each turn, which moves items along the surface to their destination. This type of conveyor comes with and without a power unit. The powered conveyor needs the use of an electric motor to move the rollers. The non-powered ones are placed on an incline and materials simply run down the slope. There is quite a bit on money to be saved, using the non-powered conveyors. There are also bucket conveyors and screw conveyors. Bucket conveyors, also called bucket elevators, are operated with a chain mechanism. They can be powered mechanically, electronically, hydraulically or by other means. A large variety of materials can be moved using this method, vertically or horizontally, which makes it especially effective in mining operations. The screw conveyor is an enclosed conveyor unit in which liquids, and other non-free-flowing materials are moved through an large tube. A large screw forces the materials through this tube. The conveyor can fit into tight places and has the ability to move materials horizontally, on an incline or straight up. When looking around you will see conveyors in use in many areas. They are used for such things as unloading ships, for moving luggage at the airport, in grocery stores, the post office and many other places. They save time and money in any operation where materials must be moved from one point to another. In addition, they are cost effective with the physical labor saved. There are very strict OSHA regulations regarding the safety of conveyor systems and a representative makes periodic inspections. These safety regulations are to insure the protection of the workers. Maintenance is required to be done on a regular basis and a maintenance record must be available for inspection. For more information on a Conveyor System or having a Vibrating Conveyor, please visit Gough & Co (Engineering) Ltd.
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