Glossary · Packaging and intralogistics
Belt conveyor
Also known as: Conveyor belt
German: Gurtförderer
In intralogistics and material handling, a belt conveyor is a conveyor in which an endless belt, driven by a drum and supported by rollers or a slider bed, carries products or bulk material.
- Intralogistics
In one sentence
A belt conveyor uses an endless driven belt to carry unit loads or bulk material, supported by rollers or a slider bed.
Example
Light parcels from the induction station ride on a belt conveyor with a slider bed to the scanner tunnel.
How it applies
- Engineering: Belt conveyors handle small, soft or irregular products that would not run well on rollers, and they can convey on inclines. Belt tracking, tension and the drive position are key design points.
- Safety: In-running nip points between belt and drums or rollers can draw in hands or clothing. Guards at drums, take-ups and transfer points are typical measures; see In-running nip point and Drawing-in hazard. Safety standards for continuous handling equipment, such as EN 619 for unit loads, apply depending on the use.
- Maintenance: Belt tracking and tension adjustments are often made with the conveyor running. The instructions must state whether this is permitted and under which protective measures, or require isolating energy first.
- Documentation: Include belt specification, tensioning and tracking procedures, cleaning instructions and the location of guards and emergency stops.
Belt conveyor vs. roller conveyor
A Roller conveyor moves products on rollers and suits stable, flat-bottomed loads and accumulation. A belt conveyor supports the product over its full contact area.