Roller conveyor systems: the backbone of efficient material handling

28/11/2025

Roller conveyor systems machine

A deeper look at how modern roller conveyor systems boost throughput and efficiency in today’s production environments

Today’s material handling operations face higher volumes, tighter deadlines, and increasing operational costs. Roller conveyor systems help teams move goods quickly and predictably, reducing manual intervention and bottlenecks while keeping throughput consistent. For facilities upgrading existing lines, they represent a practical and scalable foundation for end-to-end efficiency.

From reliability to layout flexibility and easy integration, this guide outlines the core advantages of roller conveyors, particularly for the paperboard industry.

What roller conveyor systems are & how they work

A roller conveyor is a frame supporting rows of rollers that transfer items via gravity or powered motion. Key elements include rollers, frames, supports, axles/bearings, and, in some cases, motors plus belts/chains or shaft drives to transmit torque. The result is smooth, controlled product transport with consistent spacing and minimal friction.

The first thing to consider is which solution best fits your application: gravity or motorized. Each offers unique advantages depending on load capacity, unit size, conveyor length, inclination, speed control, and working environment.

What roller conveyor systems are & how they work

These systems are designed to evolve with your needs. Their operational wins include:

  • Higher throughput that keeps productivity consistent throughout the day
  • Fewer manual lifts and pushes, reducing physical strain and improving workplace safety
  • Faster changeovers that keep production flowing even in high-mix environments
  • Reduced unplanned downtime and simplified preventive maintenance, ensuring reliable and continuous operation

Straight sections, curves, merges, and stops are modular and easy to combine. They can be added as processes expand, allowing upgrades to roller conveyor systems without having to overhaul the entire production system.

The most common applications range from logistics hubs and warehouses to packaging, but most importantly to the bookbinding and paperboard industries. In these fields, roller conveyors play a crucial role in transporting printed books between processing stations with precision and care.

Solema designs and builds modular conveyors and devices handling solution:

Ensure seamless integration within production lines. Decades of experience in graphic arts and paperboard have resulted in robust, low-maintenance systems tailored to real production constraints.

To learn more about our roller conveyor systems, visit our website and contact us to request a quote.