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When it comes to product handling in high volume production environments, precision and reliability are key. That’s where Ladder-Flex conveyors come in. Designed to spread, converge or diverge to enable products to be spaced with care and consistency, they’re a smart solution for manufacturers looking to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

In this Q&A, we answer the most common questions about Ladder-Flex conveyors, what they are, how they work and why they’re a game changer for industries like food processing and packaging.

Q: What is a Ladder-Flex conveyor and how does it work?

Ladder-Flex conveyors use rows of single chains to gently guide products into position through spreading, converging or diverging. This design allows for precise spacing and orientation, making them ideal for downstream processes such as packaging, inspection or robotic pick and place.

Q: What makes Ladder-Flex conveyors different from traditional conveyors?

Unlike standard belt or roller conveyors, Ladder-Flex offers superior control over product alignment. Its unique design allows for delicate or irregularly shaped items to be handled effectively, minimising risk of damage and therefore ensuring high product quality.

Q: What types of products are Ladder-Flex conveyors best suited for?

Ladder-Flex conveyors are ideal for lightweight or delicate products, as well as areas where processing widths are not consistent.  Common sectors include baked goods, confectionery, protein processing or the introduction of pick and place equipment.

Q: Which industries commonly use Ladder-Flex conveyors?

You’ll find Ladder-Flex conveyors in food processing and packaging facilities, anywhere where hygiene, precision and gentle handling are essential.

Q: What are the key benefits of using Ladder-Flex conveyors?

  • Gentle product handling
  • Improved orientation and spacing
  • Reduced product damage
  • Customisable layouts
  • Easy integration
  • Hygienic, washdown friendly design
  • Meets the latest EHEDG conveyor design guidelines

Q: How do they improve product orientation and spacing?

The Ladder-Flex conveyor system can efficiently and effectively increase or decrease the spacing between products, without the need for operator input.  The individual chains can be used for randomised products or lanes of grouped chains for consistently spaced products. This improves accuracy in packaging and inspection and reduces the risk of product sticking, jams or misfeeds, meaning fewer rejects and improved efficiency.

Q: Are they easy to clean and maintain?

Absolutely, Ladder-Flex conveyors have been designed using the latest EHEDG conveyor design guidelines and feature open frame construction and stainless steel components, making them easy to clean and ideal for hygiene sensitive environments. Their simple mechanical design also means fewer parts to maintain.

Q: How easy is it to integrate Ladder-Flex into existing systems?

Integration is simple and highly adaptable. Ladder-Flex conveyors are designed to be customised to fit seamlessly into your existing layout and are compatible with most upstream and downstream equipment, including pick and place and robotic systems. This flexibility helps optimise production line configurations and enhances product handling efficiency.

Incline and decline options are available depending on the application and our experienced technical sales team provides full support throughout the entire process, from design and ordering to installation and commissioning, ensuring a smooth and successful integration.

Q: What do current users say about Ladder-Flex conveyors?

Customers consistently report smoother operations, better product presentation and reduced waste. Many have seen improvements in line efficiency and packaging accuracy after switching to Ladder-Flex.

Q: How do Ladder-Flex conveyors contribute to operational efficiency?

By ensuring consistent product spacing and orientation, Ladder-Flex reduces downtime, improves throughput and enhances overall line performance, delivering a strong return on investment.

Conclusion: Is Ladder-Flex Right For Your Line?

If your production line demands precision, hygiene and gentle handling, Ladder-Flex conveyors could be the perfect fit. Whether you’re in food processing, packaging or pharmaceuticals, their unique design and proven performance make them a smart investment.

Want to learn more or see Ladder-Flex in action? Contact our team for a demo or consultation.