what impacts the energy efficiency of conveyor systems?

You should care about energy consumption for several reasons. Firstly, climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and reducing energy use is a crucial step in addressing it. Reducing consumption lowers your carbon footprint and contributes to the global effort to combat climate change.

Secondly, energy consumption can impact your brand's reputation. As consumers become progressively more conscious of environmental problems, they are increasingly looking to do business with companies making an effort to be more sustainable. Thus, reducing your company's power usage can improve your image and attract more green customers.

Thirdly, lowering your energy consumption can reduce your operating costs. Companies unable to demonstrate energy efficiency may be at a competitive disadvantage. This aspect is vital in light of the increasing environmental legislation that is being put in place.

In summary, the type of system, the load being transported, the distance the material is being moved and the speed at which the conveyor operates. The system's temperature can also affect energy consumption, and finding the right balance is essential. Cold systems may result in increased friction, greater wear and tear, and more energy consumption. Hot conveyor systems can lead to malfunctions, reduced reliability and overheating components.

As you can imagine, the greater the load and length, the more energy is required. A recent study showed that the belt conveyor is responsible for about 90% of the system's total energy consumption in a process with a variable material flow rate. In comparison, the system's motor accounts for just about 10%. Improving the conveyor belt efficiency will make you more energy efficient.

It is, however, essential to consider these figures with caution. They apply to a particular conveyor system and are not universal.

To estimate the energy consumption of a conveyor system, you can use the following steps:

1. Measure the power consumption of the conveyor system by using a power meter or consulting the specifications provided by the manufacturer. Power consumption should be measured in kW.

2. Estimate the weight or volume of the material transported over a certain period or use data provided by the manufacturer.

3. Calculate the conveyor system's energy efficiency: Divide the amount of material conveyed by the power consumption. The result is the conveyor system's energy efficiency, usually measured in ton-kilometres per kW-hour (TKWh).

4. To see if it performs efficiently, Compare the results with industry standards, such as ISO 5048 or CEMA (Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association) guidelines.

5. Based on the results, make adjustments to the conveyor system, including reducing the belt speed, optimising the load or performing maintenance to improve energy efficiency.

It's imperative to note that these steps are general guidelines, and the exact calculation method may vary depending on the conveyor system and industry standards. Consult our team for accurate information and the calculation method for your conveyor system.

You can save energy by implementing several optimisations to your system.

• Use sensors in conjunction with programmable frequency drives. They can disconnect sections of the conveyor system that are not transporting any product.
• Ensure the process and system are designed correctly, including the pneumatic system.
• Optimise your energy consumption by choosing conveyors with low-friction curves. Whenever possible, choose efficient drives.
• Maximise product throughput per hour by improving conveyor efficiency.
• Ask Joloda Conveyors Services to perform time and motion studies to modernise the assembly process.
• Avoid overloading the system at all costs.