It's official: July 2012 was the hottest on record. No wonder, then, that we've been thinking about refrigerated and freezer warehouses a lot lately. (And yes, we do think about them. That's where ice cream comes from, doesn't it?) So it was especially apropos to receive some tips for keeping conveyors running smoothly in cold environments.

The tips came courtesy of Viastore Systems Inc., the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based provider of automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), conveyor systems, and warehouse management software. Here, in brief, are the company's recommendations for keeping your conveyors "comfortable" in the cold:

1. Using high-efficiency gear motors that have variable-frequency drives will increase the life of motors.
2. Special lubrication, grease, and bearings designed for cold temps will keep conveyors moving properly.
3. Tighten everything up again once the system has been installed and the space has been brought down to the proper temperature.
4. Air curtains or air vestibules can help to reduce condensation and ice buildup in interlock zones.
5. Instead of photo sensors, use limit switches at the interlocks, where there is bound to be some condensation.
6. For AS/RS or lift systems, cable that is only freezer-rated isn't good enough; it must also be rated for flexibility.
7. Special belts that resist cracking and premature wear are a necessity.

Viastore has published an article that explains these tips in more detail. To request a copy, send an e-mail to info@viastore.com or call (855) 539-8895.