Infeed & Discharge Conveyors are specialized conveyor systems that serve as the transition points between packaging machines and other line components. Infeed conveyors guide containers, packages, or products into machinery such as fillers, cappers, labelers, or cartoners, while discharge conveyors move finished items away for the next stage of processing or packing. These systems are engineered with precision to ensure that products arrive in the correct orientation and spacing, minimizing misalignment or collisions that could lead to line stoppages. Often equipped with sensors, gating systems, and timing mechanisms, these conveyors are designed to accommodate the speed and rhythm of the machines they serve.

The design of infeed and discharge conveyors often includes features tailored to the application’s needs and the type of products being conveyed. Key attributes include:

• Low or adjustable back-pressure systems to prevent product damage or jams
• Timed or metered feed control to synchronize with machine cycles
• Guide rails and alignment mechanisms to ensure consistent orientation
• Variable speed motors to adapt to different product sizes and line speeds
• Washdown and sanitary designs for food, beverage, or pharmaceutical environments

Typical products and applications include:

• Pharmaceutical vials and ampoules: Precisely fed into filling machines to ensure correct orientation and gentle handling
• Plastic and glass bottles: Timed into cappers and labelers, then discharged toward packing stations
• Snack bags or pouches: Aligned into vertical form-fill-seal machines or transferred to checkweighers and coders
• Cartons and boxes: Moved into case packers and palletizers, then discharged to warehouse lines
• Cans and jars: Transferred between rinsing, filling, and sealing machines for uninterrupted flow

These conveyors are built for durability and long-term performance in high-speed production environments. Their ability to maintain consistent product flow and precise handoffs between equipment contributes to smoother line operation, reduced downtime, and increased throughput. Whether feeding delicate vials into a filling station or discharging cartons into a case packer, infeed and discharge conveyors are essential for seamless product handling in modern packaging and processing lines.