It is sometimes easy to ignore the small details when trying to complete a large project. The details, in this case, are the components and materials of your conveying system. When comparing two rather similar conveying systems, there is one manufacturer who offers you a very low price for what it seems to be “the same system”. But if you take a closer look, you will notice that the systems are not quite the same; the difference is in the components and materials used to build the system. While one manufacturer offers you below average parts and materials, the second one will ensure that you get a better quality product engineered for your process and your sought after product requirements (such as no fines or breakage by the conveyor), which will improve the payback performance and durability of your conveying system. Remember: Buying a conveying system made with sub-standard components and materials will cost you more in the long run than higher quality equipment.

There is nothing wrong with purchasing the equipment that meets just your minimum specifications, however, if your production goals increase as your business expands, it is always a good idea to have some room for growth; a conveying system that can deliver a bit more, when needed, is always a good investment.

Estimating how much money a system will cost you after its installation is not always a straightforward process. When it comes to maintenance the bottom line is that low quality conveying systems will cost you more in parts and labor than a higher quality one. Other factors that can increase the cost of maintenance are: improper operation of the system (or any of its components), overloading the conveyor, ignoring basic servicing guidelines, among others. So, in short, assuming that you purchased a good quality conveying system, you need to make sure that proper training is given to the operators of the system, and that all servicing guidelines and schedules are followed by them after the installation process is completed.

Although a CIP system can improve efficiency and avoid product contamination, the reality is that not everybody needs one. This kind of system is highly recommended for businesses that process food (for human or animal consumption), agricultural, chemical and pharmaceutical products. Other types of products may not require the same sanitary standards, so the installations of drains within the system can be more than enough for some businesses. Keep in mind that only a couple of manufacturers offer this system (including Luxme), and food-grade conveyors required specific construction materials and components, some of them accepted by the USDA (only at Luxme), the FDA, and the CE.

The conveying industry offers a variety of products and components that differ in price, efficiency, construction, productivity among other things. Depending on what you are looking for, you will learn about two or more solutions that can potentially solve your material handling problem. Cable conveyors are an affordable solution that requires high maintenance, can experience unsanitary cable fraying or breakage, and offers limited strength in the cable. Pneumatic conveyors are also affordable, although expensive to maintain since they suffer from constant plugging or bottle-necking and are not very gentle with the product transported through it. Tubular chain conveyors are sometimes a bit more expensive than the previous two systems but are often more durable and gentle on the products being conveyed. Maintenance is low while being more reliable for batch and continuous product conveying. For more on conveyor comparisons, please click here.

When it comes to buying conveying systems, without a doubt, your budget and cost will always affect your final decision. While some companies will take a look at the overall picture and consider the long-term cost of investing in a particular piece of equipment, others are only concern about the initial cost. Both approaches are acceptable and understandable, but, as we mentioned before, ignoring the seemingly small details could increase your overall investment considerably. Therefore, we suggest that you look at both, the short-term and long-term goals, and, in this way, determine what conveying system is best suited for your application. Thus, you will be prepared to deal with any additional investment your equipment may require after its installation.

• The space where the conveying system will be installed should be carefully considered during the design process. Some conveying systems may not fit adequately within the designated area.
• If the products you wish to convey produces a hazardous or corrosive vapor, or is flammable, or needs to be handled with care, make sure that the manufacturer is aware and are experienced in handling such a product. Attention to details in regards to safety standards should always be required.
• Study the manufacturer’s history and track record beforehand. If possible, talk to previous clients to see if they were, and still are satisfied with the service and customer support provided after installation.