Linear rollers are designed to be rugged, reliable, and capable of years of performance before they need to be replaced. These humble components are used in a variety of applications, including many machining and automated processes, so facilities count on them to work every time they are needed. If they don’t, the results can cost more than money – it can also put lives in danger. This is why so many facility owners consider their options carefully before selecting a component, and why so many are making the shift to polyurethane conveyors.
What are linear rollers used for and where are they used?
The short answer is, anything and everywhere. These conveyors are designed to provide motion on a single axis, so they can move forward and back, but not side to side. This design is ideal for something that has to move on a rail, or something that opens and closes. Ideally, such a conveyor system only provides one or a few points of contact, as this reduces the wear and tear on the conveyor and also reduces friction. And lower frictional forces means less energy is required to power the conveyor.
Some of the most common applications of linear rollers include:
- Machining tools, such as grinders, presses and drills. A conveyor provides a precise form of movement for the machining arm, and this movement tends to be automated for maximum consistency.
- Packaging systems, such as multi-line lifters and packers. A series of conveyors allow an automated arm or lifters to move from line to line as product arrives. Reliable and predictable movement is essential in a packaging system, as these machines are capable of doing serious damage if they malfunction.
- Large doors, such as oven, freezer, or warehouse doors. Heavy doors are best operated with minimal friction, and these conveyors provide just that. They are ideal for facilities that have walk-in freezers or ovens that need to be opened and closed frequently and tightly.
- Entrance and security gates. Most security gates are automated and must only open when prompted, so they must be consistent and resistant to the elements. Apartments, gated neighborhoods, factories, governmental facilities and critical infrastructure are all usually protected by security gates, so conveyors have far-reaching applications in this area.
What are the best linear rollers to use for these various applications?
Polyurethane conveyors combine excellent durability with excellent economy, making them a favored choice among companies that need extensive use from their conveyors. Polyurethane is a thermosetting polymer, so it can be designed to any degree of hardness, any color, and any extra features or design additions.
Polyurethane can easily handle water, dust, ice, snow, heat, and corrosive substances, which means it is perfect for rough environments, and especially rough exterior environments. And because polyurethane is quickly and easily manufactured, they can be readily produced for an application of any scale.
Company and facility owners need to be able to count on their conveyors, and nothing can beat polyurethane in this regard.