How to choose the right weigh belt feeder for your worksite

Many businesses rely on weigh belt feeders to manage bulk handling, accurately measure harvested or processed commodities and control output. This critical equipment ensures that the right amount of material is distributed to the next phase of production with the proper delivery cadence. Manufacturers, recycling plants and agricultural facilities, among other operations, can all run far more effectively with a high-quality, reliable weigh belt feeder.

Not all feeders are appropriate for every application, however. Businesses that use this equipment have vastly different needs, including the type of material processed and the commodity processed. Choosing the right weigh belt feeder for your worksite will improve the performance and accuracy of this critical machinery.

Volumetric vs. gravimetric

There are two basic types of weigh belt feeders: volumetric and gravimetric. Depending on the nature of the business, gathered materials and produced commodities, one will be better-suited for that particular application.

• Volumetric: These weigh conveyors operate at the same set speed, running for a specific amount of time to process materials. Although they cannot adjust belt speed or account for diverse commodities, volumetric weigh belt feeders are very efficient and reliable when managing materials with consistent density, such as grain.
• Gravimetric: These belt feeders continuously measure the weight of materials passing along the conveyor. They can dynamically adjust belt speed as the density or weight of products shifts, making them ideal for operations with varied commodities. Gravimetric weigh belt feeders also provide readings within 1% accuracy, so they are best suited for sites that require the most precise measurements possible.

Another factor to consider is that gravimetric weigh belt feeders are often more expensive to service and repair due to their increased complexity.

Weigh belt feeders are designed with different applications in mind.

Find the right weigh belt feeder for your worksite

Making the decision between volumetric and gravimetric weigh belt feeders often comes down to your industry, although that's not always the case. Agricultural harvesting facilities deal with materials that have a consistent weight and density, so it wouldn't make sense to spend more on a gravimetric feeder with sophisticated capabilities.

Recycling plants, meanwhile, process a wide variety of materials, from small pieces of plastic to large heavy items. A volumetric weigh conveyor will probably struggle to process everything with optimal efficiency.

Because every situation is unique, a customised solution may be required. SRO Technology assesses the needs of each site to determine the best type of weigh belt feeder for that application. Our expert team tailors the final product to maximise productivity and efficiency and provide long-term value. Reach out today to find out more.