Food Product Elevator Manufacturers

Food product elevators — types and applications

Food product elevators transfer product from a lower level to a higher level in a food processing or packing line. Unlike bucket elevators (which handle bulk loose material), food product elevators typically handle individual pieces, portions, or packaged products in a controlled, gentle manner to avoid damage. The main types are: z-type (z-frame) cleated belt elevators (a belt with transverse cleats — the product rests against the cleats as the inclined belt carries it upward; the z or c shape allows the infeed to be at low level, the elevation in the middle, and the outfeed at a higher level in a compact footprint); inclined flat belt elevators with side guides or raised edges (simpler design for lower inclinations); and spiral elevators (the product travels in a continuous upward spiral — particularly gentle; used for fragile products and for accumulation between production and packing steps). Food product elevators must be in food-grade materials with cleanable design, as discussed in the belt conveyors guidance.