Spiral freezer manufacturers and equipment designers often compare spiral and incline conveyors for moving products between levels. This decision usually depends on available space, product type, and production flow.
Both systems have their strengths, and selecting the right one can support more consistent and reliable performance across the line.
How Each System Moves Products Vertically
Incline conveyors utilize a straight or angled belt to lift items. The angle and belt type determine what products can be moved without slipping. These systems are often chosen for simple, linear layouts with open space.
Spiral conveyors, by contrast, move items along a circular path using a belt that wraps around a central drum or drive structure. These systems reduce elevation space, maintain consistent orientation during movement, and are well-suited for compact or multi-level environments.
Footprint Considerations for Factory Layouts
Incline conveyors require a longer layout due to their need for gradual angles to prevent product rollback. These systems may be more feasible in facilities with excess floor space.
Spiral conveyors move products upward or downward. This makes them suitable for facilities with limited space or multi-level workflows. They also allow better use of vertical space, helping keep floor areas clear for other equipment.
Belt Types and Load Ratings
Belt choice affects how well each conveyor performs under pressure. Incline conveyors typically use rubber or modular belts, which can be fitted with cleats to secure items during elevation. These belts vary in material and strength, depending on the incline and the type of item.
Spiral conveyor belts vary by design type:
● Positive drive spirals use grid belts with grip tabs.
● Slip-drive spirals rely on belt-cage friction.
● OutRunner spirals use vertical line shafts and sprockets for consistent chain engagement.
These belts can support heavy or oily products, depending on their design, and are selected based on the load and speed requirements. Choosing the right belt is important to reduce wear and extend service life.
Energy Consumption and Speed Control
Incline conveyors generally rely on a single motor, and power use varies by incline angle and product load. Their energy profile can be predictable, but it may rise significantly with steep inclines or heavy loads.
Spiral conveyors can be built with a central drive, tiered shafts, or external mechanisms, depending on the type. Spiral designs often allow for flexible speed control, reversible direction, and low power draw, particularly in models like the OutRunner spiral. These features offer better handling for mixed product sizes and flow rates.
Supplier Recommendations from Spiral Conveyor Companies
Spiral conveyor suppliers often recommend spiral units for food, beverage, or consumer packaged goods (CPG) applications where product orientation and space savings are crucial. These systems can support batch and continuous operations.
Incline conveyors are better suited for straightforward lifts in open spaces or where cost is the primary concern. They are often selected for simpler setups with predictable flows.
Spiral systems also support proofing, cooling, and freezing tasks, making them versatile for temperature-sensitive goods. Their flexibility makes them useful across multiple stages of production. Spiral freezer manufacturers often rely on these designs to meet the space and performance needs of food and CPG environments.
Working with Spiral Conveyor Manufacturers
Facilities across the USA and Canada seek spiral conveyor manufacturers that offer technical details, layout flexibility, and long-term reliability.
CONOVEY supports food and CPG operations with spiral conveyors that reduce footprint and adapt to high-volume movement. Contact us to work with one of the most trusted spiral conveyor companies in the USA.
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