ABSTRACT
Modern manufacturing methods dictate the use of material handling systems. Conveyors, a type of materials handling system, are an essential part of large-scale production and continuous processes. They are used in such diverse fields as agriculture, food processing, plastics manufacturing, and mining industries. There are two basic methods used for moving materials: nonpowered material handling systems and powered material handling systems. Conveying is a single element in the greater spectrum called materials handling. Materials handling is, however, an integral part of many continuous processes. Some conveyors can provide minor processing functions such as heating and cooling, but this is supplementary to the primary materials handling function. This chapter discusses some of the mechanical conveyors that have feeding capability. It covers the equipment such as belt conveyors; screw conveyors; vibratory conveyors; chain conveyors; bucket elevators; continuous carriers; and various drives. This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in this book.
