Conveyor in a drum

July 7, 2005
One approach to building an efficient conveyor system is to use drum motors, also knows as motorized pulleys.

Drum motors from BDL America, Wilmington, N.C. (bdlamerica.com), transmit power through a gearbox coupled to a geared rim connected to the drum and motor housing. This totally encloses the motor, transmission, and bearings. The sealed motors should never need maintenance and mount with just two brackets. Steel teeth reduce noise to 50 dB or less to meet run at 96% efficiencies, saving 32% (unloaded) and 47% (loaded) on power consumption compared to exposed drives. The "sealed-for-life" drum protects against dirt, dust, chemicals, and other potential contaminants. Diameters range from 3.18 to 12.6 in., and they are rated from 0.11 to 7.5 hp. Belt speeds go from 23 to 1,369 fpm.

Sponsored Recommendations

How to Build Better Robotics with Integrated Actuators

July 17, 2024
Reese Abouelnasr, a Mechatronics Engineer with Harmonic Drive, answers a few questions about the latest developments in actuators and the design or engineering challenges these...

Crisis averted: How our AI-powered services helped prevent a factory fire

July 10, 2024
Discover how Schneider Electric's services helped a food and beverage manufacturer avoid a factory fire with AI-powered analytics.

Pumps Push the Boundaries of Low Temperature Technology

June 14, 2024
As an integral part of cryotechnology, KNF pumps facilitate scientific advances in cryostats, allowing them to push temperature boundaries and approach absolute zero.

The entire spectrum of drive technology

June 5, 2024
Read exciting stories about all aspects of maxon drive technology in our magazine.

Voice your opinion!

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