Vibratory conveyor
A closed trough on springs, driven by a vibration motor. The product is carried to the next station in an even flow, with no belt and no moving parts in the product zone.
What it does
A vibratory conveyor moves product from one point of the line to the next. The trough is mounted on springs and driven so that each vibration cycle throws the product slightly forward. The product therefore travels along the trough without a belt. Because the trough has no moving surfaces in contact with the product, it is simple to clean and gentle on fruit.
Even flow
Product that is dumped into the trough by hand or by a tipper leaves it as a steady stream. This evens out the batches so the next machine, for example an optical sorter or a sizing screen, receives a constant layer rather than surges.
Internal agitators
In dried-fruit lines the product often arrives in clumps. Fixed agitator elements inside the trough help break the clumps into single pieces while the product travels. The agitators have no drive of their own; the vibration does the work. Used on raisins, apricots, figs and dates.
Where it fits
- Between a manual or tipper feed point and the first processing machine.
- Between a washer and the next stage, where a perforated trough can also drain water (see vibrating screen, dewatering version).
- Before packing, to present the product as a steady stream.
Build
Trough and frame are AISI 304 stainless steel; AISI 316 is an option for product-contact surfaces where the process requires it. The trough is open on top for inspection and cleaning. Length, width and trough depth are made to the line. The conveyor can run stand-alone or under the line PLC.
Vibratory conveyor or belt conveyor
A belt conveyor suits long distances, inclines and products that must not be agitated. A vibratory conveyor suits shorter runs where the product should be spread, separated into single pieces or drained on the way, and where a surface without a belt is preferred for cleaning. Many lines use both.