Selecting the right conveyor system is essential for optimizing workflow, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the long-term reliability of your material handling process. With a range of conveyor options available, it's common for buyers to ask: Should I choose a chain conveyor, mesh conveyor, or belt conveyor?
This comprehensive guide will help you evaluate the key differences, ideal applications, and advantages of each conveyor type, so you can make an informed investment.
Best for: Pallet handling, automotive components, heavy industrial goods
Chain conveyors use interconnected chains to move products across a line. These conveyors are ideal for heavy, bulky, or unevenly shaped items that require a robust support surface.
Limitations: Requires regular lubrication and maintenance, Louder operation than belt systems
Applications: Automobile ancillary units, Bottling plants with glass containers, Metal parts and mold handling
Best for: Hot or wet items, parts requiring air flow or drainage
Mesh conveyors feature an open wire mesh surface that allows air or liquid to pass through the product being conveyed. Typically constructed from stainless steel or mild steel, these conveyors are common in food processing, metal treatment, and drying operations.
Limitations: Not suitable for very small or loose products, Less smooth for delicate items
Applications: Biscuit cooling lines, Steel forging plants, Vegetable and seafood washing
Best for: General-purpose conveying of boxes, bags, or packaged goods
Belt conveyors use a continuous loop of material (PVC, PU, rubber, etc.) to move items. Known for their simplicity and adaptability, they are ideal for light to medium-duty applications across industries.
Limitations: May not handle extremely heavy loads well, Susceptible to belt wear over time
Applications: Packaging and logistics, Food & pharma (with food-grade belts), E-commerce fulfillment
At Parab Conveyor Systems, we specialize in designing and manufacturing all three conveyor types—chain, mesh, and belt—with custom engineering to match your workflow and industry standards.
We help you evaluate: Load type and frequency, Environmental factors (temperature, moisture, dust), Hygiene and material standards (GMP, FDA, SS304/SS316), Automation readiness and layout constraints
| Feature | Chain Conveyor | Mesh Conveyor | Belt Conveyor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | ✅ High | ✅ Medium | ✅ Light-Medium |
| Surface Type | Solid slats | Open mesh | Continuous belt |
| Best For | Heavy parts | Hot/cool/dry process | General goods |
| Maintenance | Medium-High | Medium | Low |
| Hygiene | Moderate | High (SS) | High (food-grade belts) |
When in doubt, consult with experts who understand your unique production needs. The right conveyor isn't just about movement—it's about efficiency, hygiene, and long-term ROI.
Contact Parab Conveyor Systems to design a conveyor solution perfectly tailored to your product, space, and process.