Choosing the right conveyors and conveying systems is a crucial decision for Australian industries, including food processing, grain handling, mining, packaging, and manufacturing. The wrong system can lead to frequent downtime, excessive maintenance, product damage, and safety risks. The right system, on the other hand, improves efficiency, ensures compliance, and delivers long-term reliability.
This buyer’s guide explains the most commonly used conveyor systems in Australia, their differences, and how to select the right solution based on your industry and material handling requirements.
Why Choosing the Right Conveyor System Matters
Conveyor systems are not one-size-fits-all. Factors such as material type, throughput, layout, hygiene requirements, and operating environment all influence system performance. Australian operations also face unique challenges, including harsh climates, strict safety regulations, and the need for durable, low-maintenance equipment.
Selecting the right conveying solution helps you:
- Reduce unplanned downtime
- Improve workplace safety
- Lower long-term operating costs
- Extend equipment lifespan
- Support future automation and expansion
Overview of Common Conveyor Systems Used in Australia
Belt Conveyors – Versatile and Cost-Effective
Belt conveyors are one of the most widely used conveyor systems across Australian industries. They are ideal for transporting bulk or unit loads over long distances with minimal energy consumption.
Best suited for:
- Food processing and packaging
- Grain and agricultural products
- Warehousing and logistics
- General manufacturing
Key benefits:
- Simple design and low operating cost
- Suitable for high-capacity and long-distance conveying
- Easy integration with automation and sorting systems
Considerations:
Belt selection is critical. Factors such as abrasion resistance, food-grade compliance, and environmental exposure must be considered during the design process.
Bucket Elevators – Efficient Vertical Conveying
When materials need to be lifted vertically, bucket elevators are the preferred solution. They are designed to move bulk materials upward with minimal footprint.
Best suited for:
- Grain handling facilities
- Food and feed processing plants
- Fertilizer and chemical industries
Key benefits:
- High vertical lift capacity
- Enclosed design reduces dust and spillage
- Gentle handling options for fragile materials
Considerations:
Selecting the appropriate bucket type, belt or chain configuration, and discharge method is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability and safety.
Screw Conveyors & Auger Flights – Controlled Material Movement
Screw conveyors, powered by precision-engineered auger flights, are ideal for controlled, enclosed conveying of bulk materials.
Best suited for:
- Powders, granules, and semi-solid materials
- Food, chemical, and recycling industries
- Metering and dosing applications
Key benefits:
- Compact and enclosed design
- Excellent control over material flow
- Customisable auger flights for different materials
Considerations:
Material characteristics such as moisture content and abrasiveness influence auger flight design, pitch, and material selection.
Drag Chain Conveyors – Built for Heavy-Duty Applications
Drag chain conveyors are designed for demanding environments where durability and low maintenance are critical.
Best suited for:
- Mining and mineral processing
- Grain and feed handling
- Fertilizer and biomass industries
Key benefits:
- Excellent for abrasive and heavy materials
- Enclosed design minimises dust
- Long service life with proper wear components
Considerations:
Chain quality, wear liners, and sprocket design directly impact performance and maintenance costs.
How to Choose the Right Conveying System for Your Industry
When evaluating conveyor systems, focus on the following key factors:
1. Material Characteristics
Consider factors such as bulk density, particle size, abrasiveness, moisture content, and temperature.
2. Throughput Requirements
Define peak and average capacity needs to avoid undersized or over-engineered systems.
3. Layout & Space Constraints
Vertical lifts, horizontal distances, and available floor space determine system configuration.
4. Hygiene & Compliance
Food and pharmaceutical industries require hygienic designs, easy cleaning, and compliant materials.
5. Safety & Australian Standards
Ensure systems meet Australian safety requirements and allow safe access for maintenance.
6. Maintenance & Spare Parts Availability
Locally supported systems with readily available spare parts reduce downtime and operating risk.
Industry-Specific Examples
- Food Processing: Belt conveyors for gentle handling, screw conveyors for powders, and hygienic bucket elevators.
- Grain & Agriculture: Bucket elevators and drag chain conveyors for high throughput and dust control.
- Mining & Heavy Industry: Drag chain conveyors and heavy-duty screw conveyors with abrasion-resistant components.
- Packaging & Logistics: Belt conveyors integrated with automated packing and weighing systems.
Think Long Term: Total Cost of Ownership
The initial purchase price is only one part of the equation. A reliable conveyor system should offer:
- Lower maintenance costs
- Energy efficiency
- Long component life
- Easy upgrades and retrofits
Choosing a partner who understands the full life cycle of conveyors and conveying systems ensures better returns over time.
Final Thoughts: Work with the Right Conveyor Partner
Selecting the right conveyor system begins with understanding your application, but success ultimately depends on choosing an experienced Australian partner who can design, manufacture, and support the system in the long term.
A reliable supplier will:
- Recommend the right conveyor type, not just the easiest to sell
- Customise solutions to your industry
- Provide local service, spare parts, and technical support
Looking for the Right Conveying Solution?
Prime MFG provides custom conveyor systems, including belt conveyors, bucket elevators, screw conveyors, auger flights, and drag chain conveyors, tailored for Australian industries. With local expertise and end-to-end support, Prime MFG helps businesses achieve long-term reliability and operational efficiency.
Contact Prime MFG to discuss the right conveying system for your application.