Understanding ARB Technology Conveyors: A Comprehensive Guide

Automated material handling has evolved significantly, with ARB conveyors emerging as a transformative solution across industries. Powered by Activated Roller Belt (ARB) technology, these systems offer versatile product handling capabilities without the need for complex controls.

Businesses seeking precision and flexibility in automation now recognize ARB technology conveyors as a core component of modern material movement strategies.

Overview of ARB Technology

ARB conveyors integrate a modular belt embedded with free-spinning rollers positioned at strategic angles. As the belt moves, the rollers activate independently, redirecting products smoothly across various axes.
Unlike traditional belt designs that follow a single linear path, ARB technology conveyors enable merging, sorting, turning, and aligning products—all within a single footprint. This technology significantly simplifies line layouts while reducing mechanical complexity.

Modsort configurations and passive diverter systems further expand the functionality of ARB conveyors, adapting easily to the demands of dynamic production environments. Minimal external actuators are required, creating a controlled and predictable material flow, especially in the packaging, warehousing, and distribution sectors.

Key Components and Functionality

Each ARB technology conveyor features several distinct components that drive operational success:

• Activated Roller Belts: The core element embedded with rollers capable of multi-directional movement.
• Passive or Motorized Rollers: Depending on the application, rollers may move passively or be driven to create specific material handling patterns.
• Integrated Diverters: Components facilitating lane changes, 90-degree transfers, and merges without mechanical pushing.
• Custom Automation Conveyors: Designs tailored to individual workflow needs, offering modular and scalable options.

ARB conveyors achieve complex routing tasks through these components while maintaining gentle product handling. Fragile goods, irregular packages, and variable-size products all move through the system without additional controls or manual interventions. Motion sequencing is inherent to the belt and roller mechanism, offering reliable operation even under changing loads.

Applications Across Different Sectors

ARB technology conveyors find applications in a wide range of industries, proving their adaptability in handling diverse material types:

• Food Processing and Packaging: Ideal for transferring delicate food items without damage, while maintaining hygiene standards.
• E-commerce and Retail Fulfillment: Sortation and merging capabilities streamline parcel handling in distribution centers.
• Automotive Manufacturing: Moving irregularly shaped components during assembly with minimal reorientation.
• Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Chains: Carefully handling small or sensitive packaging formats.
• Warehouse Automation: Enabling multi-lane merges and diverges, significantly reducing labor-intensive processes.

The diversity of applications underscores how custom automation conveyors leveraging ARB technology meet the demands of modern manufacturing and logistics operations.

Maintenance and Operational Tips

Although ARB conveyors feature fewer moving parts compared to conventional material handling equipment, proactive maintenance remains essential to maximize lifespan and consistent performance:

 

• Regular Inspection: Frequent checks of belt condition, roller alignment, and tension prevent minor wear from escalating into major issues.
• Cleaning Regimen: Debris between rollers can obstruct movement. Scheduled cleaning prevents operational interruptions.
• Component Monitoring: Passive diverters and embedded rollers should be checked periodically to maintain directional control accuracy.
• Lubrication and Adjustments: During routine inspections, rollers or ancillary equipment may require lubrication or minor realignment, where applicable.

Establishing a structured maintenance schedule helps maintain optimal system performance and reduces unexpected downtime. Workers trained on specific ARB operating procedures also contribute to smooth daily operations.

Summarizing the Importance of Custom-Built Conveyors

Modern production environments rarely fit into a standard template. Product sizes, throughput rates, and facility layouts vary significantly across industries. Custom-built conveyors address these realities by allowing precise adaptation of ARB technology to each facility’s specific needs. Whether for space-saving vertical transfers or intricate multi-lane sortation, customized designs deliver scalable solutions that evolve with business demands.

Working with experienced providers specializing in custom automation conveyors further refines system performance, enabling integration with existing lines while maximizing throughput potential.

Organizations interested in upgrading material handling capabilities should contact CONOVEY  to discuss purpose-built ARB conveyor solutions designed to meet operational goals reliably.