Best Practices for Configuring Transfer Conveyors in Small Spaces

Space limitations in distribution and production areas can restrict equipment layout, leading to workflow bottlenecks and maintenance issues. When configured correctly, accumulation conveyors and transfer conveyors enable businesses to move products seamlessly without requiring an expansion of the layout.

Modern setups prioritize flexibility, quiet operation, and product handling that adapts to floor constraints. Utilizing modular designs and pre-engineered features enables easier scaling of operations while maintaining compact layouts.

Maximizing Floor Space with Curves and Elevation

Conveyors that bend or lift products use vertical and curved motion to save space. This avoids long, straight runs and supports more complex routing:

• Curved conveyors navigate around obstacles and support complex paths.
• Topper Lifts raise or lower products up to 65 degrees without flights.
• Helical bends and twist modules adjust flow without the need for additional machines.
• Incline and decline sections shift products between levels using less horizontal space.
• Compact spiral conveyors manage elevation without transfer stations.

These methods reduce the need for long transfer zones and support full-line integration in tight areas.

Choosing SpanTech for Compact Layouts

Spantech conveyors are well-suited for tight layouts due to their modular structure and smooth movement.

Their standard components enable flexible merges, lanes, and twists without requiring excessive hardware:

• Captured chain systems permit long runs without belt tension issues.
• Quiet operation reduces noise in compact areas.
• EZ Guide systems support quick changeovers in curved and straight lines.
• Standard modules allow future layout changes without full redesigns.
• Pre-engineered bends and junctions reduce the need for custom parts.
• Anticipated lifespan of 25 years with 99.9% uptime reduces long-term disruptions.

These features minimize downtime and allow rapid changes to match packaging or order profiles.

Ideal Transfer Conveyor Types by Application

Different product types and transfer points call for specific designs.

Pre-engineered modules help avoid delays associated with custom fabrication:

• MicroSpan powered transfers for small, lightweight items (as small as 25 mm).
• Gravity rollers and chutes for low-maintenance transitions.
• Dead plates for simple end-to-end movement.
• Powered roller modules for active control at hand-off points.
• Side-to-side lane switches for routing between lines.
• Low-friction slides for fragile or irregular-shaped items.

Each type supports a different motion need while maintaining layout flexibility.

Matching Equipment Size to Production Flow

Oversized equipment can waste space, while undersized units slow production.

Transfer and accumulation conveyors must align with the actual product flow rate and staging requirements:

• Modular accumulation zones hold items without backpressure.
• Transfer units keep products spaced and aligned.
• Design should handle production surges and short stops.
• Zone controls help manage movement based on downstream status.
• Conveyor speeds must reflect item type, weight, and hand-off timing.

Choosing the right module size reduces queue buildup and prevents underutilized zones.

Compact Material Handling Conveyor Integration

When configured with careful attention to product type, space, and flow, small-space systems can produce output comparable to that of larger layouts. The integration of components such as guide rails, powered transfers, and accumulation zones can increase production without requiring major structural changes.

A well-integrated material handling conveyor setup supports lean operation, shortens transit paths, and reduces manual touchpoints.

CONOVEY supplies material handling equipment that adapts to limited floor space without compromising performance. From transfer modules to complete accumulation conveyor layouts, we offer modular solutions backed by proven engineering.

Contact our team for customized solutions for your facility.