Power and Free Overhead Conveyors
Overhead conveying that lets each carrier stop, queue and switch routes on its own.
What it is
A power and free conveyor has two tracks. The power track carries a continuously running drive chain. The free track below it carries the load trolleys or carriers. Dogs on the chain engage the carriers to move them and release them where the line needs to stop, so carriers can accumulate, wait at a process, switch to another route or be pulled out of the line while the chain keeps running.
This separation is what makes power and free different from a simple overhead chain conveyor, where every hanger moves at the chain speed. Inverted and floor-mounted variations bring the carriers up to working height for assembly.
Where it fits
Power and free conveyors fit paint and powder coating lines, washers and curing ovens, assembly lines that need stop-and-go stations and plants that buffer parts between departments. They keep heavy or awkward parts off the floor and free up floor space below.
Our role
We sell, install and service power and free overhead conveyors. Our team coordinates the route, loads, switches and stops with your process engineers, the building structure and the conveyor manufacturer, then installs track, drives, take-ups and controls and commissions the system. We also handle extensions, reroutes and repairs on existing lines.
Because our team also handles related equipment, this scope can be packaged with neighboring systems under one point of contact. We work nationwide from our headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD. We support owners, plant managers, engineers and general contractors from first layout through ongoing service.
Our process
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Scope
We review drawings, site conditions, loads and schedule, then confirm what the project needs.
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Specify
We recommend equipment and layouts, coordinate manufacturers and price the complete package.
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Install
Our field teams deliver, install and commission the equipment in coordination with your GC and trades.
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Support
After handover we provide service, adjustments, parts coordination and expansions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between power and free and a standard overhead conveyor?
A standard overhead conveyor moves every carrier at chain speed. Power and free carriers can stop, accumulate and switch routes independently while the chain keeps running.
Can power and free run through an oven?
Yes. Power and free is widely used to carry parts through pretreatment, paint booths and cure ovens with components rated for the temperature.
Can the building carry an overhead conveyor?
A structural review confirms whether the roof structure can carry the loads or whether floor-supported steel is needed. We coordinate this with your engineer.
Can an existing line be modified?
Yes. Routes, switches, stops and accumulation can usually be added or changed as production evolves.
Often paired with
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Conveyors
Roller, belt, overhead and in-floor conveyors that keep product moving from receiving to shipping and along production lines.
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In-Floor Towline Conveyors
A chain in the floor that pulls carts along your manufacturing line at a steady pace.
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Paint Booths
Spray booths that contain overspray and deliver clean, consistent coatings.
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Industrial Ovens
Batch and continuous ovens that cure, dry and heat parts consistently.
Planning a power and free conveyors project?
Share drawings, specs or photos and our sales team will help scope the right solution.
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