To select the conveyor component to match the particular application, the following questions have to be answered beforehand:

• How long, wide and high are the materials to be conveyed?
• How much do the items weigh?
• What are the characteristics of the items?
• What is the base surface of the items like?
• Are there any special ambient conditions that have to be taken into account (e.g. wetness, extreme temperatures, chemical influences)?
• Does the conveyor system, and hence the conveyor surface, have to be antistatic?
• Will the conveyor system be driven or are the items going to run on gravity conveyors?

To ensure that items are conveyed smoothly on roller conveyors, they must be supported by at least three rollers at all times. The length of the rollers (roller length = "RL") is normally equal to "item width + 50 mm". The weight of the items being conveyed must be distributed over a sufficient number of load rollers so that the permissible load capacity of the individual rollers is not exceeded.
In specific cases, this may mean the items have to be supported by more than three rollers. The condition of the base surface of the items is also important. Cardboard boxes, for example, adapt very well to rollers, so the weight of the items is distributed evenly. Compared to plastic totes, however, cardboard boxes are likely to have a higher starting resistance. For this reason, it is advisable to select rollers with lower pitch.
When conveying pallets, it is only about two thirds of the rollers under the items that are normally bearing the load - due to the specific properties of a pallet. To ensure reliable operation, even under unfavourable conditions, the bearings of most Interroll conveyor rollers are protected against splashes of water. In damp areas, stainless steel ball bearings or specially sealed ball bearings should be selected.
Quiet running is achieved by using bearing housings and seals made of polymer in conjunction with precision ball bearings. If electrostatic charges have to be prevented, there is a special design of roller available. Where operating conditions may cause problems, please consult us for advice.