Apron feeder

Apron feeders, also known as steel slat conveyors, are robust and powerful transport systems. The main features of solutions with slat-band chains and plates are their high durability and conveying capacity. They are capable of transporting large quantities of material in a short time. Where conventional conveyor systems reach their limits, these feeders show their strength: they effortlessly handle materials with extreme properties. These include sharp-edged, heavily soiled, moist, oily, and hot materials, as well as those containing milling chips or emulsions. Conveyed goods with different weights, dimensions, shapes, temperatures, and uneven surfaces can also be transported. This makes them the ideal conveyor system for companies in the mechanical engineering sector. Even steep inclines and sloping passages can be mastered easily, ensuring height differences are no obstacle. This is why these systems are also known as steep-angle conveyors.

A wide variety of transport solutions

In addition to apron conveyors, our portfolio also includes other linked belt conveyorssuch as modular belt conveyors and hinged belt conveyors as well as belt conveyors. For particularly heavy goods, we also offer heavy-duty roller conveyors and gravity roller conveyors. Convince yourself of our wide range of expertise in conveyor systems: You can find a selection of our realised projects here.

Advantages of apron feeders from TEGEL-TECHNIK

Broad Range of Applications: Our feeders effortlessly handle even materials with extreme properties and fit seamlessly into demanding working environments. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications and industries, such as mechanical engineering and the automotive sector.
Individuality and Flexibility: To customize these feeders to your specific requirements, various link belts with smooth, perforated, or slotted surfaces can be used. Fastening options such as flights and other attachments can be integrated into the belt design of inclined conveyors.
Robust and Reliable: The use of steel-hinged plates ensures exceptional resilience and durability. They are also easy to clean, and the individual steel plate chains can be easily replaced in the event of maintenance or repair.
Efficiency and Economy: These conveyors ensure uninterrupted material flow over straight and inclined sections, optimizing productivity while keeping operational costs low. The robust design and low maintenance requirements provide long-term cost efficiency.
Everything from a Single Source: We offer a high level of vertical integration with an extensive range of mechanical, electrical, mechanical engineering and software services. As a company and manufacturer in the field of conveyor technology, we draw on our valuable experience since 1982 and our long-standing partnerships with reliable suppliers.

Construction of conveyor technology with plates and chains

The operation of an apron feeder is based on the interaction of several components. The core element is an endless carrier belt consisting of individual hinged steel plates. These plates are connected by hinges, making the belt both flexible and stable. Depending on the application, the belt surface can be smooth, perforated, or slotted.

These conveyors can be driven in various ways. Typically, an electric motor with a gear unit connected to the drive shaft powers the conveyor belt. The drive mechanism is generally located at the end of the system.

Functionality of apron feeders

When using these systems, the material to be transported is fed onto the conveyor belt at the loading station. It is then moved to the discharge point. The speed of the belt can be adjusted to match specific requirements. The inclination of the conveyor frame also allows inclines and declines to be handled effectively. The positive drive system, consisting of steel-hinged plates, sprockets, and chains, ensures constant and reliable operation.

To ensure trouble-free functionality, individual hinged plates include lateral upstands that prevent material from falling off or jamming. Scrapers can be installed to prevent material from accumulating on the belt. These can be fixed or movable and ensure that material is properly discharged at the unloading station.

Apron conveyors in use

Apron conveyors effortlessly transport goods with extreme properties under challenging conditions. Their robust construction and intelligent design make them indispensable across numerous industries. Common areas of use include:

Foundries: These conveyors transport hot cast parts directly from the mold without requiring cooling. Heat-resistant steel plates and optional cooling systems enable safe transport at high temperatures.
Recycling Plants: Used to sort and transport sharp-edged materials like scrap and metal waste. The robust steel-hinged plates withstand wear and damage, making them ideal for demanding environments.
Metal Processing: Frequently used to remove chips or punching waste, thanks to their durable steel plates designed to handle extreme conditions.
Automotive Industry: Essential for vehicle assembly and production, they transport parts and components between stations, ensuring smooth manufacturing processes.

Comparison with other conveyor systems

Durability & Load Capacity: Outperforms belt and roller conveyors in handling heavy-duty and abrasive materials.
Resistance to Extreme Conditions: Unlike chain or belt conveyors, apron conveyors handle heat, moisture, and sharp-edged materials without damage.
Precision in Material Handling: Provides controlled transport with minimal spillage, surpassing gravity-fed and roller systems.
Versatile Design: Supports steep inclines and declines, allowing flexible integration into various production layouts.
Longer Lifespan & Easy Maintenance: Replaceable steel plates ensure low maintenance costs and extended service life.

Customization options & industry-specific solutions

TEGEL-TECHNIK designs its apron feeders with maximum flexibility to meet the unique needs of different industries. Whether handling heavy, sharp-edged materials in recycling plants or hot-cast parts in foundries, our feeders can be tailored with various belt materials, coatings, and attachments for optimal performance. Adjustable speeds, incline angles, and additional components like scrapers, side guards, and impact-resistant plates ensure efficiency and reliability in material transport.

Efficiency, automation & sustainability

Modern apron conveyors go beyond simple material transport by integrating smart automation, real-time monitoring, and sustainability features. Equipped with sensors and control units, they adjust speed, optimize load distribution, and predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and energy consumption. Energy-efficient motors and recyclable steel plates contribute to lower operational costs and an eco-friendly footprint. By improving material handling precision, these systems minimize waste and ensure seamless workflow efficiency.

TEGEL-TECHNIK: Expertise in high-quality conveyor systems

With decades of experience, TEGEL-TECHNIK stands as a leading manufacturer of durable, efficient, and industry-adapted conveyor solutions. From development and production to on-site installation and integration, we provide customized apron conveyor systems tailored to specific industry demands. Our expertise spans mechanical engineering, automation, and software solutions, ensuring that every conveyor system is optimized for performance, reliability, and longevity. Get in touch with us to find the ideal solution for your material handling challenges.