Whether upgrades, retrofits or new installations, conveying systems need to fit in with existing automation systems, use less energy and be even smarter than ever—with the ability to accommodate changing product or packaging sizes in a single shift. At the same time, cleanliness to FDA, USDA and dairy 3-A Sanitary Standards is a must. Many conveying projects are application-specific and often require design work. Unfortunately, supply chain and labor issues can delay custom-designed projects significantly, so adequate planning and scheduling is required.
According to a recent survey, “Conveyor System Market by Industry” from Research and Markets, the global conveyor system market size is projected to reach $12.7 billion by 2027, from an estimated value of $9.4 billion in 2022, a CAGR of 6%. The key driving factors are higher adoption of customized automated material handling solutions based upon niche specifications in various end-use industries and rising demand for handling larger volumes of goods, especially in consumer/retail, food and beverage markets.
According to the report, the constant investments in R&D by conveyor system manufacturers accompanied with growing supply chain networks is fueling the demand for conveyor solutions in the forecast period. According to the UN Industrial Development Organization, the consumption of goods in developed countries is expected to rise to approximately $30 trillion by 2025. This rise is expected to increase the penetration of industrial automation and the requirement for efficient material handling systems.
While certain specialized applications in the food industry—such as bulk and dry products—often involve enclosed tubular conveyor systems (e.g., vacuum, drag, etc.), the study shows that, by type, the belt conveyor is projected to be the largest and one of the fastest growing markets. Belt conveyors can handle higher capacities at significantly lower cost per ton-kilometer and cover longer distances more easily and economically than other conveyors. Though many food and beverage applications specifically depend upon sealed tubular conveyors to minimize dust and preserve cleanliness, the study says that belt conveyors work alongside specialized conveyance systems in food and beverage, especially in packaging and warehousing/distribution systems.
Read more: The Demand for Smart and Efficient Conveying Systems