The Efficiency of 24V DC-Powered Conveyors for Modern Logistics

Modern logistics features many twists and turns, challenging the most robust of business operations. With continued supply chain and labour force issues affecting the logistics sector, engaging with automation technology to meet the demands for efficiency, reliability, and energy savings is more pronounced than ever. Among the many innovations driving this industry forward, 24V DC-powered conveyors stand out as a robust and effective solution. These powered roller conveyors not only optimise material handling but also enhance operational flexibility across industries.

With nearly 30 years of conveyor design and UK manufacturing experience, L-A-C Logistics Automation sits in a unique position to help our customers achieve operational efficiency with long-term benefits. In our latest article, we look more closely at our 24V DC-powered conveyor range, its features and benefits, and the industry applications where they shine brightest. These systems support seamless integration into operations, ensuring efficient handling of both fragile items and larger items alike.

What Are 24V DC-Powered Conveyors?

24V DC-powered conveyors are material handling systems that operate using 24-volt direct current (DC) motors to drive conveyor belts or rollers. Unlike traditional conveyors that often rely on alternating current (AC) motors and centralised power systems, 24V DC conveyors use distributed motor technology, typically integrating multiple motorised rollers or zones. As modular conveyors, they offer unmatched adaptability and efficiency for a variety of industries.

Each zone is independently powered and controlled, providing modularity and greater operational flexibility. These systems are commonly used in applications requiring high levels of efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and noise reduction. Additionally, drive options for these conveyors ensure they meet diverse operational requirements, from pressure accumulation conveyors to gravity roller conveyors.

Overview of Features and Benefits of 24V DC-Powered Conveyors

The adoption of 24V DC-powered conveyors has been on the rise due to their numerous advantages. Here are some of their key features and benefits:

Energy Efficiency

The 24V DC motors are highly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less power compared to traditional AC-powered systems. They only operate when needed, thanks to intelligent control systems, resulting in minimal idle energy consumption. This translates to reduced energy costs and sustainable operations.

Modularity and Scalability

These conveyors are designed with modular zones, each powered independently. This allows for easy scalability and configuration to suit specific operational needs. Additional zones or sections can be easily added without major overhauls. Reconditioned conveyors are also a viable option for businesses looking to upgrade cost-effectively.

Low Noise Levels

The DC motors operate quietly, which is a critical factor in reducing noise pollution in warehouses and production facilities. This also creates a more comfortable working environment for employees handling fragile items.

Precise Control and Automation

24V DC-powered conveyors come with advanced control systems that enable precise movement, sorting, and accumulation of items. These systems integrate seamlessly with warehouse automation technologies, such as sensors and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), to ensure efficient operations and support day turnaround needs.

Enhanced Safety

Low-voltage DC systems inherently reduce the risk of electrical hazards. Additionally, the modular design allows for easy isolation of specific sections during maintenance or in case of a malfunction, ensuring operational safety.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

The distributed motor design means fewer moving parts and localised power sources, which translates to less wear and tear. Maintenance becomes simpler, quicker, and less expensive compared to traditional conveyor systems. This is particularly beneficial for food production environments requiring consistent uptime.

L-A-C Portfolio of 24V Conveyors and Modules

Our wide range of re-engineered conveyor modules shines a light on operational and energy efficiency with a host of robust modules and accessories to seamlessly integrate with the conveyor solution design to offer unrivalled material handling excellence.

The Poly-O Straight Conveyor has a robust construction of zinc-plated rollers ideal for gentle product handling. The Poly-O straight conveyor minimises product impact and optimises operational flow, providing a seamless solution for zero-line pressure and standard transportation of goods for a wide range of industries. The Stainless Poly-O Straight Conveyor is further enhanced with the durability and resilience of stainless-steel framing, well-suited for demanding operations or those where hygiene is critical.

The Poly-V Straight Conveyor features multiple V-shaped ribs fitted along the belt to provide additional structure for heavy-duty applications needing a reliable and more stable journey when transporting larger items.

Conveyor Modules for Additional Integration

Conveyor systems are often designed with combinations of many different conveyor modules, all playing a part in the overall efficiency of material handling. Here are just some of the key conveyor modules that enhance standard and straight-line conveyors to optimise efficiency across operations:

Aligner conveyor: Used to align products in a specific direction, ideal for applications where the next process requires items to be presented in a certain way, such as labelling.

Merge conveyor: This conveyor module is designed to merge multiple lines into one or more primary lines, often used in post and parcel sortation.

Lift-up gate: An innovative piece of conveyor technology, a lift-up gate allows for safe and quick human access through conveyor lines without the need for a bridge or steps. This saves time and prevents the risk of injury, without impacting material handling speed.

Switch sorter: Switch sorters are used to change the direction of product flow without reducing the speed or volume of throughput. This helps with space optimisation as conveyor lines can be sent in different directions quickly and efficiently.

24V bend: These conveyor modules are widely used in distribution, manufacturing, and packaging operations, where curved or bend sections are necessary to route products efficiently.

Transfer pop-up: This highly versatile piece of conveyor technology consists of a belt that ‘pops up’ between the rollers, allowing the flow of products to rotate by 90 degrees.

Advantages of Using Conveyor Systems

As we have highlighted, this range of conveyors is highly versatile, providing fast, accurate, and efficient handling of goods across various industries. Here are some of the most common sectors where they provide significant benefits:

E-Commerce and Retail Fulfilment

In e-commerce and retail warehouses, 24V DC-powered conveyors support fast order picking, sortation, and packing activities. Their ability to integrate seamlessly with other robotic and automation systems makes them ideal for high-volume operations requiring pressure accumulation capabilities.

Food and Beverage

The precise control features and choice of materials (e.g., stainless steel) are beneficial to food and beverage manufacturing, where delicate handling of products and strict hygiene standards are essential.

Pharmaceutical and Healthcare

Pharmaceutical facilities benefit from the safety and reliability of 24V DC conveyors. They are well-suited for transporting lightweight and sensitive items, ensuring the smooth and controlled movement of goods as well as maintaining product integrity.

Automotive and Electronics

Across assembly lines used for automotive parts and electronic components, 24V conveyors provide an ideal solution for efficient and flexible material handling. Their modular design supports efficient operations even for complex assembly processes.

Distribution Centres

Widely used within warehouses and distribution centres, this type of conveyor provides seamless inbound and outbound logistics. Integrated conveyors optimise the flow of material, reduce operational downtime, and offer cost savings with a lower labour force required to carry out handling tasks.

Conclusion

As the logistics and supply chain landscape continues to evolve, 24V DC-powered conveyors offer a robust solution with a perfect blend of efficiency, flexibility, and reliability. Combining an energy-saving design, modular construction, and the ability to integrate with advanced automation technologies make them a preferred choice for a wide range of applications.

From pressure accumulation conveyors to gravity roller conveyors, these systems exemplify the future of material handling solutions. As the demand for smarter, faster, and more sustainable logistics solutions grows, 24V DC-powered conveyors will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of material handling systems.