How Much Does a Vibratory Conveyor Cost?

Vibratory conveyors are essential machines in the food processing industry. These powerful workhorses move, sort, grade, and handle various products effortlessly. However, as with any large equipment purchase, it’s vital to understand the cost implications.

Several important factors influence the overall price of a vibratory conveyor. Understanding them will help you budget and make a more informed decision. Read on to learn more about vibratory conveyor costs and what drives pricing variations.

FACTORS IMPACTING VIBRATORY CONVEYOR COST 

Vibratory conveyors come in many variations to suit specific applications in the food industry. The type and complexity of the solution you need will greatly influence the overall cost.

Drive Type

Electromagnetic and mechanical vibratory conveyors use different operating mechanisms, directly affecting their cost. Electromagnetic conveyors often have a higher initial price tag but may be more energy-efficient over time.

Solution Type

A simple conveyor setup has a different price point from a more complex vibratory one. These complexities drive the most price increases due to the additional components and design time. The solution choice hinges on your project scope and the tasks you need the system to accomplish.

Value-Added Applications

Vibratory conveyors can perform various functions beyond basic conveying, but each application comes with its own cost implications:

• Feeding: While basic feeding typically doesn’t require significant design changes, custom controls or hoppers may be necessary to ensure a consistent and metered flow.
• Screening: Specialized screens with various mesh sizes and configurations are integrated into the conveyor bed to separate particles by size or remove foreign objects. A separate takeaway conveyor is often included to remove and collect oversized or unwanted materials (“takeaway”).
• Dewatering: Removing excess moisture or liquid requires specially designed pans or decks with drainage holes or slots. A collection pan or trough beneath the conveyor may be necessary to catch and redirect the drained liquid.
• Laning: Dividers and guide rails are added to the pan to create multiple product lanes on a single conveyor. More complex configurations may involve multiple vertically tiered conveyors, each with its own motor and controls.
• Grading: Specialized pans with varying slopes, multiple tiers, or a combination of both are used to sort products by size or quality. This differs from laning, which typically uses a single pan with dividers.
• Spreading: Even product distribution across the conveyor often requires custom-designed pans or strategic placement of additional vibration motors.

System Complexity & Integrations

The total cost of your vibratory conveyor system depends on its overall complexity. A system with multiple conveyors and supporting equipment like platforms or stairs will naturally be more expensive than a single, standalone conveyor.

Integrating your vibratory conveyor with existing equipment or other processing lines adds another layer of complexity and cost. For example, transitioning from a wide conveyor to a narrow one, merging multiple lines into one, or elevating a product from floor to a platform requires additional components and engineering. 

Customizations

Any modifications or integrations beyond a standard conveyor setup will alter the price. Common customizations might include changes in shape or size or the addition of specialized discharge chutes.

Size

The physical size of the conveyor—length, width, depth, and the overall number of conveyors needed—all impact costs. A longer or wider conveyor or a multi-conveyor system will naturally be more expensive.

Electrical Controls

Simple controls are less expensive than centralized systems. However, centralized controls for multi-conveyor setups can improve safety, boost efficiency, and reduce downtime. These improvements will ultimately impact your bottom line.

Sanitary Design

RTE (ready-to-eat) and USDA-compliant sanitary conveyors follow strict material and construction standards. Due to the use of stainless steel and other specialized design elements, they are more expensive to manufacture. However, sanitary conveyors are vital in preventing costly product recalls.

Quality/Durability

Investing in high-quality materials and construction pays dividends in the long run. A well-built conveyor will have fewer maintenance problems and last much longer, resulting in a better return on investment over time.

Expertise and Support

Choosing a vibratory conveyor supplier with extensive experience in the food processing industry is crucial. A knowledgeable manufacturer like PFI understands the unique challenges and regulatory requirements of food production. 

We can guide you in selecting the right solution, ensuring it meets all sanitary design standards and integrates seamlessly with your existing equipment. Moreover, PFI provides comprehensive support, from initial design and engineering to installation, training, and ongoing maintenance, safeguarding your investment and maximizing the long-term value of your vibratory conveyor system.

ADDITIONAL COST CONSIDERATIONS 

Remember the costs beyond buying the conveyor. Installation, training, and ongoing maintenance can all add up over time.

Installation

Installation of vibratory conveyors is typically a separate service from the cost of the machine itself. Factors like the project complexity, location, whether structural changes are needed, and the total installation time will all impact the final installation cost.

Training

Vibratory conveyors are designed for easy operation. PFI offers basic training resources (e.g., manuals and videos) at no extra cost. We train staff at installation and can host additional training for a fee. 

Maintenance

Vibratory conveyors are known for their low maintenance requirements. Their minimal moving parts translate into lower operational costs over their lifetime. However, routine upkeep is crucial in maximizing their lifespan and performance. This typically involves replacing vibratory springs once or twice a year and properly tuning the motors. 

The relatively low cost of these replacement parts contributes to the overall cost-effectiveness of vibratory conveyors. 

Operational Expenses (Energy Consumption)

Properly tuned mechanical vibratory conveyors are remarkably energy-efficient. Due to their design, electromagnetic conveyors can offer even lower energy consumption. This energy efficiency can significantly reduce operating costs over time.

PRICE ESTIMATES

The price of a vibratory conveyor depends heavily on size and customization. For a more accurate idea, getting a quote directly from a manufacturer is best.

Base Models

The price of a base model vibratory conveyor varies depending on its model, size, and built-in features. For example, smaller conveyors can run anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000+.

Customized Models

Vibratory conveyors with extensive customizations or complex system requirements are harder to price without detailed specifications. The wide range of possible options, sizes, and features make fixed estimates challenging.

LIFETIME VALUE AND COST

Regular maintenance is crucial to get the most out of your vibratory conveyor. It extends the lifespan and optimizes performance. Keeping your conveyor in good working order can minimize downtime and increase productivity.

Due to their limited moving parts and longer lifespan, vibratory conveyors have a lower lifetime cost than belt conveyors. This advantage enables them to operate with reduced maintenance requirements and increased uptime. At PFI, we build our conveyors with high-quality materials to deliver reliable performance and durability.

A well-designed conveyor tailored to your specific needs can also reduce the total cost of ownership and maximize return on investment. Additionally, it offers impressive energy efficiency, which reduces operating expenses over time. A customized conveyor solution allows you to streamline your operations and stay ahead of the competition.

GET THE RIGHT VIBRATORY CONVEYOR SOLUTION WITH PFI 

The cost of a vibratory conveyor system depends on various factors. That’s why partnering with PFI is crucial. Our team of experts will guide you in selecting the ideal vibratory conveyor for your needs. We’ll ensure you get the best value for your investment.

Click below to learn more about our vibratory conveyors and the value they’ll add to your production line.

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