Bottom-drive carousels outlast top-drive

Oct. 19, 2000
A bearing analysis conducted by White Systems Inc.

A bearing analysis conducted by White Systems Inc. confirms that bottom-drive carousels (right) last longer than top-drive units (left).


A fundamental decision designers face when building a horizontal carousel is whether to configure it as a top-drive or bottom-drive system. New research indicates a significant difference. A recent study, funded by White Systems Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., shows bearing life to be more than six times greater on bottom-drive than on top-drive carousels. The study compares standard top-drive and bottom-drive carousels by measuring them with load and duty cycles in laboratory and field environments.

Among the conclusions were data that indicated a carousel with a 1,000-lb/bin load traveling at 80 fpm will experience a failure rate of 10% after 1,425 hr on a top-drive machine, while that extends to more than 8,750 hr on a bottom-drive carousel. "The conclusion is that bottom-drive carousels require less maintenance and will outperform topdrive carousels in heavy-duty applications," noted Anthony Balestro, vice president of engineering at White Systems. Bottom-drive carousels are recommended for heavier loads and higher activity levels.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 27, 2025
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with our comprehensive Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Safety Training course. Learn critical procedures to prevent serious injuries.
June 27, 2025
Join our expert webinar to discover essential safety control measures and best practices for engineering a truly safe and compliant industrial environment.
June 25, 2025
An innovative aircraft with electric drives combines the best of both worlds. The cross between drone and helicopter could mean significantly faster and more efficient air emergency...
June 25, 2025
Effective when other materials fail, ceramics are particularly suitable for applications requiring wear and chemical resistance, sliding characteristics or biocompatibility. Discover...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!