Choosing Between a Gravity Conveyor and a Power Conveyor

Choosing Between a Gravity Conveyor and a Power Conveyor

When considering a new, replacement, or additional conveyor roller for your operation, there are several key questions to ask:  

• What is the length of the conveyor?
• How are the items positioned, and what is the spacing between them?
• What is the conveyor’s transfer rate? 

If you’re familiar with your warehouse or distribution center’s specifications, the answers to these questions should be straightforward. However, the most important decision you’ll need to make is:

Do You Choose a Gravity Conveyor or a Powered Conveyor?

The decision between these two conveyor types is crucial, as it can impact the efficiency of your entire operation. Choosing the wrong one could hinder your warehouse’s effectiveness. Fortunately, we’re here to help you decide which conveyor system is best for your business!

Gravity Conveyors

Gravity conveyors rely on the physical force of gravity to move products. This means they do not require a powered source to operate, making them ideal for situations where gravity alone can handle the movement of goods. These conveyors are best for moving products from one point to another, and there are two common types:  

• Gravity Roller Conveyors
• Gravity Skatewheel Conveyors

These conveyors work by allowing products to roll downhill, taking advantage of gravity’s natural force. However, when products need to be moved over flat surfaces or uphill, human assistance or external support is needed.

Power Conveyors

The key difference between gravity conveyors and power conveyors is the source of movement. While gravity conveyors rely solely on gravity, power conveyors require an external power source, typically in the form of an electric motor. This motor powers a tensioned belt or individual rollers, allowing products to be moved over longer distances and across varying elevations without human intervention. The main types of power conveyors include:

• Belt Conveyors   
• Conveyor Rollers

Gravity Conveyors vs. Power Conveyors

There are several important distinctions between these two types of conveyors, especially when it comes to heavy-duty industrial or warehouse conveyor systems.

• Gravity Conveyors: These are great for moving products downhill or across short distances. However, they require human assistance to move items across flat surfaces or longer stretches. Gravity conveyors may also cause products to accumulate as they travel downhill, leading to potential congestion.
• Power Conveyors: In contrast, power conveyors can move products over both flat and inclined surfaces without human intervention. They can easily maintain a consistent distance between items, ensuring smooth operations. This makes them ideal for long-distance transport, and they maintain power and speed over declines, inclines, and flat surfaces.

Which Conveyor Is Right for Your Business?

The decision ultimately depends on your needs. Gravity conveyors are suitable for short-distance travel and scenarios where gravity can assist in moving items. Power conveyors are more versatile, handling longer distances, varying inclines, and heavy-duty material handling with ease, all without requiring manual assistance. 

If you’re unsure about which conveyor system suits your warehouse or distribution center’s needs, reach out to us at Heinrich Brothers. We specialize in designing custom conveyor systems, offering solutions like heavy-duty conveyor systems, warehouse conveyor systems, and material handling conveyor systems. Let our experts guide you through the process and help you make the right decision for your operations. Contact us today for a consultation and quote!