What Is a Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor (VRC)?

A VRC is a safe, economical, convenient means to transfer goods from one level to another. VRCs have use case scenarios in many different industries, including manufacturing plants, storage facilities, distribution centers, and other multi-level operations. These adaptable pieces of equipment can be readily incorporated into a structure’s mezzanine, balcony, basement or any higher story levels.

VRC’s consist of a column, a carriage, and a hydraulic or mechanical system. Vertical material lifts can be installed almost anywhere inside or outside of a structure. Gates and enclosures encircling VRC shafts keep workers safe and prevent accidents.

What Are Some Advantages of VRCs?

Safety: Many operations are dependent upon forklifts to move their materials and merchandise from one level to another. While ideal for moving many different materials, lift trucks are primarily intended for the horizontal movement of materials. To save time and effort, employees may sometimes take their forklifts beyond their vertical limit or move loads in excess of their equipment’s capacity rating. When these transgressions occur, the probability of an accident multiply.

For some vertical transport of goods between levels, VRCs offer a safe and effective alternative to lift trucks. Specifically designed and built for each facility’s application needs, VRCs greatly reduce the chances of human error.

In addition, VRCs are built to lift more substantial loads more frequently. These more rapid throughput rates result in reduced labor hours and lower costs. For businesses that have routine vertical lifting requirements, VRCs can improve safety and decrease labor expenses.

Customization: One major benefit to VRCs is the degree to which they can be adapted to unique requirements. Since standard elevators are engineered to safely move people, there are numerous regulations that limit the weight capacity, speed and size of these mechanisms. While such safeguards are necessary and advisable for safely moving people, they are inhibitive for high throughput movement of products in manufacturing plants, warehouses and distribution centers. VRCs can be readily customized due to the fact that they are not subject to the same regulations as passenger elevators.

Regulation: Vertical reciprocating conveyors are engineered to move goods only, while standard elevators are meant to move both passengers and freight. Due to this fundamental distinction, VRCs are free from the stringent elevator standards in many states.

In lieu of local code, VRCs are regulated by their own national code that is under the authority of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), one of the preeminent standards shaping organizations in the nation. More specifically, vertical reciprocating conveyors must comply with ASME’s Safety Standard for Conveyor and Related Equipment (ASME B20.1-2018). This standard defines the rules for the construction, assembly, operation and servicing of conveyor systems.

Raymond West Is A Full Service Supplier of Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors

If you’re starting the procurement process for a VRC, have questions or need engineering assistance, Raymond West can help. Our conveyor system experts can help design, procure, set up and service a system that’s perfect for your operation. Give us a call today!

Raymond West's San Diego facility serves all of San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Downtown, El Cajon, Escondido, Fenton Carroll Canyon, Grantville, Kearney Mesa, Levanto, Morena, National City, Oceanside, Otay, Otay Mesa, Poway, San Marcos, Santee, Sorrento Mesa, Spring Valley, Vista and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | San Diego Material Handling Equipment Supplier

8221 Arjons Dr # B2
San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 679-1800