Air Conveyors

Air conveyors refer to flat top conveyor systems that use compressed air to move packages or materials, similar to air hockey tables.

Category Explained

Air Conveyors are specialized conveying systems that use a cushion or stream of compressed air to transport lightweight containers and packages along a flat, perforated surface. Often compared to the operation of an air hockey table, these conveyors minimize physical contact between the product and the conveying surface, drastically reducing friction, wear, and the risk of tipping or product damage. Air conveyors are particularly effective in high-speed applications where gentle handling is essential, allowing for smooth, continuous product flow without the use of belts or chains.

Commonly used in industries that prioritize cleanliness and delicate handling—such as beverage, food, and pharmaceutical production—air conveyors are ideal for upstream or inter-machine transport of empty, lightweight containers. Key features include:

  • Perforated stainless steel or aluminum decks that distribute air evenly across the surface
  • Adjustable air pressure for precise control over container movement
  • Side rails or guides to maintain alignment and prevent tipping
  • Integrated blowers or compressed air systems to sustain consistent air flow
  • Low-maintenance design with no belts or chains to clean or replace

Typical products and applications include:

  • Empty PET bottles: Transported from blow molding stations to filling lines without contact
  • Aluminum beverage cans: Moved gently to rinsers or cappers at high speeds
  • Plastic cosmetic containers: Carried across lines with minimal risk of scratching
  • Pharmaceutical containers or vials: Floated along the conveyor to maintain sterility and integrity
  • Food-grade tubs or trays: Glided between cleaning and filling stations in sanitary environments

By offering a reliable, non-contact method for high-speed transport, air conveyors help improve line efficiency, maintain product quality, and reduce mechanical wear in sensitive production environments.