Food Engineering logo
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
  • TOPICS
  • EXCLUSIVES
  • MEDIA
  • FOOD MASTER
  • EVENTS
  • RESOURCES
  • EMAGAZINE
  • SIGN UP!
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • NEWS
  • Latest Headlines
  • Manufacturing News
  • People & Industry News
  • Plant Openings
  • Recalls
  • Regulatory Watch
  • Supplier News
  • PRODUCTS
  • New Plant Products
  • New Retail Products
  • TOPICS
  • Alternative Protein
  • Automation
  • Cannabis
  • Cleaning | Sanitation
  • Fabulous Food Plants
  • Food Safety
  • Maintenance Strategies
  • OEE
  • Packaging
  • Sustainability
  • More
  • EXCLUSIVES
  • Plant Construction Survey
  • Plant of the Year
  • Sustainable Plant of the Year
  • State of Food Manufacturing
  • Top 100 Food & Beverage Companies
  • MEDIA
  • Podcasts
  • Videos
  • Webinars
  • White Papers
  • EVENTS
  • Food Automation & Manufacturing Symposium and Expo
  • Industry Events
  • RESOURCES
  • eNewsletter
  • Custom Content & Marketing Services
  • FE Store
  • Government Links
  • Industry Associations
  • Market Research
  • Classified Ads
  • EMAGAZINE
  • eMagazine
  • Archive Issue
  • Advertise
Food Engineering logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Food Engineering logo
  • NEWS
    • Latest Headlines
    • Manufacturing News
    • People & Industry News
    • Plant Openings
    • Recalls
    • Regulatory Watch
    • Supplier News
  • PRODUCTS
    • New Plant Products
    • New Retail Products
  • TOPICS
    • Alternative Protein
    • Automation
    • Cannabis
    • Cleaning | Sanitation
    • Fabulous Food Plants
    • Food Safety
    • Maintenance Strategies
    • OEE
    • Packaging
    • Sustainability
    • More
  • EXCLUSIVES
    • Plant Construction Survey
    • Plant of the Year
    • Sustainable Plant of the Year
    • State of Food Manufacturing
    • Top 100 Food & Beverage Companies
  • MEDIA
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Webinars
    • White Papers
  • FOOD MASTER
  • EVENTS
    • Food Automation & Manufacturing Symposium and Expo
    • Industry Events
  • RESOURCES
    • eNewsletter
    • Custom Content & Marketing Services
    • FE Store
    • Government Links
    • Industry Associations
    • Market Research
    • Classified Ads
  • EMAGAZINE
    • eMagazine
    • Archive Issue
    • Advertise
  • SIGN UP!
Latest headlines

Debunking misconceptions about tubular drag conveyors

Cable and disc systems gently and precisely convey blends for a range of materials and conditions

Cablevey-Conveyors-4-inch-diameter-tubular-conveyor-for-online.jpg

Modular systems like tubular drag cable conveyors are space efficient and a suitable option for complex layouts that require curves or changes in direction.

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Cablevey-Conveyors-frozen-peas.jpg

Tubular drag cable systems move materials in a  range of forms and states with throughput rates up to 80,000 pounds per hour.  

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Tubular drag cable systems move materials in a  range of forms and states with throughput rates up to 80,000 pounds per hour.  

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Cablevey-Conveyors-indoor-outdoor-conveying-system.JPG

It is common to see portions of tubular conveyor equipment extending outdoors when conveying product from outside to inside or vice versa, such as when unloading raw material or loading finished product.  

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

It is common to see portions of tubular conveyor equipment extending outdoors when conveying product from outside to inside or vice versa, such as when unloading raw material or loading finished product.  

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Cablevey-Conveyors-installation-tube.jpg

Tubular drag cable conveyors are engineered to maintain precise blend ratios, maintaining a consistent mix ratio whether conveying a fine powder, coarse mix, or larger amalgams of different weights and shapes.

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Tubular drag cable conveyors are engineered to maintain precise blend ratios, maintaining a consistent mix ratio whether conveying a fine powder, coarse mix, or larger amalgams of different weights and shapes.

Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Cablevey-Conveyors-4-inch-diameter-tubular-conveyor-for-online.jpg
Cablevey-Conveyors-frozen-peas.jpg
Cablevey-Conveyors-indoor-outdoor-conveying-system.JPG
Cablevey-Conveyors-installation-tube.jpg
November 30, 2021

In the food processing industry, walking onto the production floor with conveyor tubes winding this way and that, in and out of machinery can seem to visitors like they have stepped into a Dr. Seuss book or Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory movie.
 
For example, at a glance even industry veterans can be challenged to distinguish whether the conveyor tubes they see are screw (augur), pneumatic, vacuum, aeromechanical, tubular drag chain and disc or tubular drag cable and disc, unless they are the plant engineer or maintenance crew. In fact, many specifiers, architects, engineers and other professionals lack substantial technical or hands-on experience with such conveyors.
 
This knowledge gap can result in extreme consequences when delicate materials or precise blends must be reliably conveyed, but, instead, costly product destruction or inaccurate blends occur.

Misconceptions about tubular drag cable and disc conveyors are the focus of this assessment, addressing six widely held viewpoints.

Tubular drag cable conveyors gently move product through a sealed tube using a coated, flexible stainless-steel drag cable pulled through on a loop. Solid circular discs (flights) are attached to the cable, which push the product through the tube without the use of air. These conveyors excel in transporting delicate, precise blends for a range of food types in versatile layouts and configurations.


Misconception 1: These conveyors are the same as a screw system

“One of the most common misconceptions is that tubular drag cable and screw conveyors are identical, which is far from the case,” says Karl Seidel, marketing director of Cablevey Conveyors, a mechanical conveyor manufacturer that serves the specialty food, coffee, powder, nut and pet food markets.
 
Screw systems, also known as auger conveyors, typically utilize a helical blade that moves granular materials within a tube. However, augurs can cause product damage and compromise blends. So, the units tend to be an option when material integrity is not critical, such as when conveying food waste.
 
“The key difference to look for is that augurs convey material with a helical screw. The transfer speed is directly proportional to the rotation speed of the screw. On the other hand, tubular drag cable conveyors transfer material between two discs pulled by a sealed cable and are designed to protect delicate products and blends,” Seidel says. 


Misconception 2: Conveyors are not designed to protect blends and mixes

When transporting a blend of product with a conveyor system, maintaining a consistent mix ratio is essential, whether a fine powder, coarse mix, or larger variable-sized amalgams of different weights and shapes.
 
However, conventional conveyor systems are not specifically designed to precisely transport blends without changing the mix ratio. Various product material weights, sizes, and shapes can shift and disperse in open systems like bucket conveyors, and vibration can cause the blended product to shift throughout transport. Vacuum and pneumatic systems can cause smaller lightweight particles in a blend to move at different speeds than heavier or larger particulates, resulting in significant blend restructuring when the product reaches its discharge point.
 
In contrast, tubular drag cable conveyors are engineered to maintain precise blend ratios, which can be important to food industry professionals from nutritionists to farmers feeding livestock, according to Seidel. As an example, the company’s engineers have resolved the issue with a completely enclosed, compartmentalized tubular conveyor system.
 
“Not unlike an endless succession of train cars, each space between solid circular discs holds a predefined volume of product. Based on the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements, engineers can calculate the optimal speed of the system, the most appropriate tube angles, and the proper construction design to guarantee their blended product remains consistent from input to discharge, even at high volumes,” says Seidel. His company has designed, engineered, and serviced enclosed cable and disc tube conveyors for 50 years in over 66 countries. 


Misconception 3: Conveyors cannot carry moist, hot or frozen material

Tubular drag cable systems like Cablevey’s convey food materials in a wide variety of forms and states including powdered, pureed, chopped, moist, hot, and frozen with throughput rates up to 80,000 pounds per hour. The systems can convey material with high moisture content such as soaked beans and chickpeas when some water is being conveyed along with the product.
 
While the tubular conveyors are constructed of plastic components, the standard units are designed to operate at 180°F (82°C) with a high-temperature option up to 230°F (110°C), so can receive the product from ovens, fryers, or dryers, according to Seidel. Even frozen products can be conveyed, although it is important that the temperature is controlled along the path, so no melting occurs with water freezing later in the system.


Misconception 4: Conveyor footprint and expansion limitations

Some in the food industry do not consider tubular conveyors because they mistakenly believe that the systems cannot fit within their facility’s available space or accommodate its layout, which may include significant inclines or elevation changes. However, this is not the case.  

Modular systems like tubular drag cable conveyors are an excellent option for complex layouts that could require curves or changes in direction, according to Seidel.
 
“Tubular conveyors do not have to be installed at 90 degrees and can use angles so can go in between, around, above or below existing equipment or other obstacles. That is important for existing facilities that may not have the flexibility to move something out of the way,” says Seidel.
 
In addition, tubular conveyors are quite space-efficient. Seidel notes that to conserve space, the conveyor turnaround and its inlet can stand on end, so it is only one foot across instead of three. If conveyor discharge occurs best using gravity, tubing can be run through walls and discharge out of the building roof, which saves interior space.


Misconception 5:  Cleaning requires dismantling and extended downtime

Between product changeovers, many traditional conveyor systems must be disassembled, cleaned or soaked and then reassembled—a labor- and time-intensive process. However, this is not necessary for tubular conveyors.
 
With tubular conveyors dry, wet, and inline cleaning options are available, according to Clint Hudson, Cablevey Conveyors engineering manager. Among dry options, brush boxes and air-knives can clean the cable. Brushes and wipers can wash the tubes. To sanitize, a sponge soaked in sanitizer can be used without getting the system fully wet.
 
For the most thorough cleansing, the cable conveyor’s wet cleaning process internally washes the tube in several steps, starting with a water rinse followed by a foaming agent, a sanitizing rinse, and a final water rinse. Once the system is thoroughly flushed out, drying is achieved by attaching urethane wipers to the tubular conveyor’s discs, which “act like a squeegee” to remove any residual water.


Misconception 6: Conveyors are indoor installation only

It is a misconception that tubular conveyors are installed only indoors. In fact, it is common to see portions of equipment extending outdoors. This may occur when conveying product from outside to inside such as when unloading raw material from a truck or railcar or loading finished product into similar transport. Materials may also travel from a feed mill to a production or packaging room, which may be 10 feet or even 100 feet away. 

According to Hudson, when some of the equipment is utilized outdoors, and when the company is moving a moist product, it can be helpful to wrap the tubes in heat tape to prevent moisture from condensing or freezing in the tubes. The conveyor manufacturer can also provide a range of accommodations to account for the effects of wind, dust, rain, insects and direct sunlight.

While first impressions of tubular drag cable and disc conveyors can evoke images of Dr. Seuss or Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, the equipment has been carefully designed and engineered for industrial performance, reliably conveying delicate products and blends in a variety of conditions. With an understanding of the true potential of these conveyors, food industry professionals will be well-positioned to take advantage of the systems’ abilities to decrease downtime and increase quality production.

For more information, visit  Cablevey Conveyors.
KEYWORDS: conveying conveyors

Share This Story

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Recommended Content

JOIN TODAY
to unlock your recommendations.

Already have an account? Sign In

  • Global Organic Food & Beverage Market to Grow

    Global Organic Food & Beverage Market to Grow

    With a CAGR of 12.07%, Bonafide Research estimates this...
    People & Industry News
  • skilled MEP worker

    Predicting Food and Beverage Manufacturing Trends for 2024

    The two words that should be kept in mind are labor and...
    Automation
    By: Derrick Teal
  • cleaning and sanitation

    The basics of cleaning and sanitation in food plants

    Sanitation maintains or restores a state of cleanliness...
    Cleaning | Sanitation
    By: Richard F. Stier
Subscribe For Free!
  • eMagazine
  • eNewsletter
  • Online Registration
  • Manage My Preferences
  • Customer Service

Food Plant Openings and Expansions May 2025

Food Plant Openings and Expansions May 2025

OT Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Food Manufacturing Facilities

OT Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Food Manufacturing Facilities

Understanding Impacts of OT Cybersecurity Events in Food Manufacturing

Understanding Impacts of OT Cybersecurity Events in Food Manufacturing

Food Plant Openings and Expansions April 2025

Food Plant Openings and Expansions April 2025

More Videos

Popular Stories

Vilter IHP in plant

Industrial Heat Pumps: Sustainable Energy Solutions for Now and the Future

FMTE Formed by Four Food Manufacturing Companies

Coalition Unites Europe’s Food Manufacturing Technologies and Equipment Sector

Butterfly pea flower

FDA Approves Three Food Colors from Natural Sources

CHECK OUT OUR NEW ESSENTIAL TOPICS

Alternative ProteinAutomationCleaning/SanitationFabulous Food Plants

Food SafetyMaintenance StrategiesOEE

PackagingSustainability

Events

June 17, 2025

Refrigerated & Frozen Foods’ State of the Cold Chain

Kelley Rodriguez, Editor in Chief of Refrigerated & Frozen Foods, will be joined in this 60-minute webinar by industry experts to help unpack the latest research.

January 1, 2030

Webinar Sponsorship Information

For webinar sponsorship information, visit www.bnpevents.com/webinars or email webinars@bnpmedia.com.

View All Submit An Event

Products

Recent Advances in Ready-to-Eat Food Technology

Recent Advances in Ready-to-Eat Food Technology

See More Products

Plant of the Year

Related Articles

  • Cablevey Conveyors 8-inch system rsz.jpg

    Cablevey Conveyors offer tubular drag conveyors

    See More
  • Cablevey Conveyors CIP

    Cablevey Conveyors Introduces Automated CIP Solution for Tubular Drag Conveyors

    See More
  • Dry Processing

    Spiroflow Chainflow tubular drag chain conveyors

    See More

Related Products

See More Products
  • food science.jpg

    Food Science and Technology, 2nd Edition

  • eBook2020-COVER.jpg

    Food Master ebook (PDF download)

  • 1119775590.jpg

    Thermal Food Engineering Operations

See More Products
×
Modular systems like tubular drag cable conveyors are space efficient and a suitable option for complex layouts that require curves or changes in direction.Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors
Tubular drag cable systems move materials in a  range of forms and states with throughput rates up to 80,000 pounds per hour.   | Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors
It is common to see portions of tubular conveyor equipment extending outdoors when conveying product from outside to inside or vice versa, such as when unloading raw material or loading finished product.   | Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors
Tubular drag cable conveyors are engineered to maintain precise blend ratios, maintaining a consistent mix ratio whether conveying a fine powder, coarse mix, or larger amalgams of different weights and shapes. | Photo courtesy Cablevey Conveyors

Elevate your expertise in food engineering with unparalleled insights and connections.

Get the latest industry updates tailored your way.

JOIN TODAY!
  • RESOURCES
    • Advertise
    • Contact Us
    • Food Master
    • Store
    • Want More
  • SIGN UP TODAY
    • Create Account
    • eMagazine
    • eNewsletter
    • Customer Service
    • Manage Preferences
  • SERVICES
    • Marketing Services
    • Reprints
    • Market Research
    • List Rental
    • Survey/Respondent Access
  • STAY CONNECTED
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
    • X (Twitter)
  • PRIVACY
    • PRIVACY POLICY
    • TERMS & CONDITIONS
    • DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION
    • PRIVACY REQUEST
    • ACCESSIBILITY

Copyright ©2025. All Rights Reserved BNP Media.

Design, CMS, Hosting & Web Development :: ePublishing

Food Engineering logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Food Engineering logo
  • NEWS
    • Latest Headlines
    • Manufacturing News
    • People & Industry News
    • Plant Openings
    • Recalls
    • Regulatory Watch
    • Supplier News
  • PRODUCTS
    • New Plant Products
    • New Retail Products
  • TOPICS
    • Alternative Protein
    • Automation
    • Cannabis
    • Cleaning | Sanitation
    • Fabulous Food Plants
    • Food Safety
    • Maintenance Strategies
    • OEE
    • Packaging
    • Sustainability
    • More
  • EXCLUSIVES
    • Plant Construction Survey
    • Plant of the Year
    • Sustainable Plant of the Year
    • State of Food Manufacturing
    • Top 100 Food & Beverage Companies
  • MEDIA
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Webinars
    • White Papers
  • FOOD MASTER
  • EVENTS
    • Food Automation & Manufacturing Symposium and Expo
    • Industry Events
  • RESOURCES
    • eNewsletter
    • Custom Content & Marketing Services
    • FE Store
    • Government Links
    • Industry Associations
    • Market Research
    • Classified Ads
  • EMAGAZINE
    • eMagazine
    • Archive Issue
    • Advertise
  • SIGN UP!