Table Top vs. Mat Top Industrial Conveyors

Table Top Conveyors

Key Benefits of Table Top Conveyors

Table top conveyors are widely used in industries where packaged goods are handled. These conveyors offer flexibility in the way they are constructed, allowing for a range of configurations such as curves, inclines, and declines. This versatility is one of the primary reasons they are favored in packaging environments.

1. Cost-Effective Construction: Table top conveyors are generally less expensive to build compared to mat top conveyors. If you’re looking for a lower capital investment, table top conveyors are the more budget-friendly option.
2. Wide Variety of Applications: Whether goods are in primary or secondary packaging, table top conveyors handle both efficiently. They are perfect for moving cases or individual packaged items from one point to another within a facility.
3. Customizable Materials: Table top chains come in various materials and configurations. For example, grip top chains can be used for moving products up an incline, and attachments or paddles can be added to further enhance the conveyor’s capabilities.

Flexibility in Conveyor Paths

One of the standout features of table top conveyors is their ability to adapt to complex conveyor paths. You can easily incorporate curves, both sharp and gradual, into the system. This flexibility allows for more dynamic layout designs within your facility, which is something mat top conveyors cannot match as effectively.

Mat Top Conveyors

Advantages of Mat Top Conveyors

While table top conveyors are excellent for packaged goods, mat top conveyors shine in applications where raw products are handled. They offer distinct advantages that make them the preferred choice in food processing and other industries where cleanliness and product support are essential.

1. Sanitary Design: Mat top conveyors provide a more hygienic solution for moving raw materials. In industries such as food processing, where cleanliness is paramount, mat top conveyors are often the better choice.
2. Superior Product Support: Mat top conveyors offer better support for the products being conveyed, especially when traveling around curves. Unlike table top chains, which experience spreading and compression as they curve, mat top conveyors maintain consistent support. This reduces the risk of products slipping between chain links, making it ideal for handling shrink-wrapped or stretch-wrapped items.
3. Smooth Product Transfers: When it comes to transferring products between conveyors, mat top systems excel. They can be designed with very tight nose bars, allowing for smooth and efficient product transfer with minimal gaps. This is particularly beneficial for delicate products or those that require precision handling.

Versatility in Attachments

Like table top conveyors, mat top conveyors can be customized with various attachments, making them highly versatile. Common attachments include side guides, flights for inclines, and roller tops for smoother conveyance. These options make mat top systems highly adaptable for a wide range of product types and conveyance needs.

Table Top vs. Mat Top: How to Choose

When to Choose Table Top Conveyors

Table top conveyors are ideal if your facility handles mostly packaged goods, whether they are in primary or secondary packaging. They are also the more affordable option, making them a great choice if budget is a significant concern. Additionally, if your conveyor path requires curves, inclines, or a variety of material options, a table top conveyor may be the better solution.

Consider a table top conveyor if:

• You’re looking for a cost-effective solution.
• Your products are in primary or secondary packaging.
• Your conveyor layout requires curves, inclines, or declines.
• You need a flexible conveyor system that can be easily adapted to different applications.

When to Choose Mat Top Conveyors

If your operation involves moving raw products or products that require more support during conveyance, a mat top conveyor is likely the better option. These systems are more sanitary and provide consistent product support, especially when traveling around curves. Additionally, mat top conveyors offer smoother product transfers, making them ideal for applications that require precision and care.

Consider a mat top conveyor if:

• Your products are raw or require sanitary handling.
• You need consistent product support around curves.
• Smooth product transfer is a priority.
• You need tight nose bars for product transfer.

Key Differences Between Table Top vs. Mat Top Conveyors

To sum up, here are the main differences between these two conveyor systems:

1. Cost: Table top conveyors are generally less expensive than mat top conveyors.
2. Product Handling: Table top conveyors are better suited for packaged goods, while mat top conveyors excel with raw or fragile products.
3. Conveyor Path: Table top conveyors can handle more complex paths with curves and inclines.
4. Product Support: Mat top conveyors provide superior product support, especially around curves.
5. Sanitation: Mat top conveyors are more sanitary, making them the go-to choice for industries like food processing.

In Summary

The choice between table top and mat top conveyors depends on your specific application. If you handle packaged goods and need a flexible, cost-effective solution, a table top conveyor is likely the best fit. On the other hand, if you require a more sanitary system with better product support for raw or fragile items, a mat top conveyor may be the right choice.

At the end of the day, the decision between table top and mat top conveyors is application-specific. If you’re unsure which system would work best for your operation, contact us today, and we’ll help you choose the ideal conveyor solution for your needs.