Most individual manufacturers like Orthman at http://www.conveyusa.com/beltconveyors.html have complete information on their products and their uses. Others like Cisco-Eagle at http://www.cisco-eagle.com/ have an elaborate web site with toll-free expert assistance, an online catalog, case studies, expert advice, and consulting.
Manufacturers of conveyor belt systems offer holistic services. They will study your needs, make recommendations, design special systems, and customize your conveyor belt and systems. Many offer round-the-clock service and undertake different kinds of service as well as preventive maintenance. Experts in the field of conveyor belts, many companies share their knowledge and host content on sites that explain in depth how one must choose a conveyor belt, how to optimize efficiency, and all about maintenance, speeds, parts, safety concerns, and ergonomic design of systems.
As a potential conveyor belt user you must do your homework well. First determine what you need, then jot down detailed specifications, surf the World Wide Web and check what your options are, look at the Yellow Pages, and visit the local chamber of commerce. Make a list of manufacturers who deal with conveyor belts that meet your needs. Contact each one and set up a meeting, find out how long they have been in business, their references, costs, as well as other details. Make a comparison table which will show at a glance what each manufacturer provides and at what cost.
Find out about installation, safety measures, guarantees, service, maintenance contract, training of your staff, and so on. Choose a manufacturer who has a good and solid reputation and will deliver high-quality material on time at an affordable cost.
