Spiral conveyors

Spiral Conveyors

Spiral conveyors are space-efficient conveying systems designed to transport products vertically while maximizing throughput within a minimal footprint. They are widely used in food-processing environments where floor space is limited and controlled product flow is required.

The spiral conveyor drive can be implemented in two configurations:

The conveyor structure consists of a central drum that serves as the drive element and a modular belt that spirals around the drum. The belt runs on guided support profiles along the spiral path. After reaching the lowest point of the drum, the belt returns via a return section to the start of the spiral, ensuring continuous operation.

Drive System

  • Direct connection of the drum shaft to the hollow shaft of the geared motor

  • Connection of the drum shaft to the motor shaft via a chain transmission

The choice of drive concept depends on conveyor size, load, belt type, and operating conditions.

Design Flexibility and Engineering Parameters

Spiral conveyors are engineered individually for each application. The initial design and calculation are based on the following input data:

Based on these parameters, the following key construction characteristics are defined:

  • Layout of the production area

  • Environmental and hygienic conditions

  • Required construction material

  • Product dwell time on the belt

  • Product type and throughput capacity

  • Product dimensions and weight

  • Integration with upstream and downstream equipment

  • Number of tiers

  • Drum diameter

  • Belt type and belt width

  • Tier height

  • Direction of belt winding (clockwise or counterclockwise)

  • Arrangement and length of infeed and outfeed sections

  • Infeed and discharge heights

  • Drum rotation speed

Typical Applications in the Food Industry

For food-industry applications, spiral conveyors are designed in accordance with hygienic design principles. Modular belts and structural materials are selected to support effective cleaning, reliable operation, and compliance with food safety requirements.

Hygienic and Safety Design

Operational safety is ensured by emergency stop devices and visual signaling systems integrated into the conveyor control.

  • Shock freezing systems

  • Cooling of bakery products after baking

  • Gentle lifting or controlled descent of products

  • Product buffering and accumulation

Spiral conveyors provide a reliable, space-saving, and hygienic solution for vertical product transport in modern food-processing lines.