Overview
The 251S Structural conveyor employs 2-1/2-inch diameter rollers with heavier gauge structural steel tubing in both rollers and frame components. Precision ABEC bearings and rigid formed channel frames deliver higher load capacities per section. This structural variant is intended for demanding gravity applications involving heavier unit loads or continuous duty in manufacturing and distribution lanes.
The distinction between this structural version and the standard 251S is the frame. While the standard model uses a formed 7-gauge steel channel, the structural version uses a 4-inch at 5.4 lbs structural steel painted channel — actual structural steel rather than formed sheet metal. This provides greater rigidity under heavy, concentrated loads and is the preferred option for permanent conveyor installations that handle pallets, loaded drums, or other high-weight unit loads on a daily basis.
Specifications
- Roller diameter: 2.5 inches
- Roller gauge: 11 ga. steel with flanged type bearings pressed into straight ends
- Frame: 4 in. at 5.4 lbs structural steel painted channel
- Roller capacity: 540 lbs per roller
- Axle: 11/16-inch hex shaft, spring loaded
- Bearings: Removable type, heavy duty ball bearings, zinc plated, grease packed
- Couplings: Butt type
Straight Sections
Straight structural 251S sections are available in multiple lengths and widths. The structural steel channel frame eliminates the flex that formed channel frames can exhibit under heavy concentrated loads, making this the preferred choice for permanent installations that handle loads near the upper end of the capacity range.
Curve Sections
The structural 251SC curve companion is available in 45° and 90° configurations. Narrower curves use a single roller design, while wider sections use a double roller design for consistent product support through the turn.
Load Capacity
Each roller is rated at 540 pounds. The structural frame provides higher section-level capacity than both formed channel and standard gravity conveyor frames.
- Supports on 10-foot centers: 3,750 lbs maximum distributed live load per 10-foot section
- Supports on 5-foot centers: 8,000 lbs maximum distributed live load
Standard vs. Structural Frame
Barron Equipment carries both the standard and structural versions of the Roach 251S. The standard version uses a formed 7-gauge steel channel frame rated at 3,400 lbs per section at 10-foot centers (7,500 lbs at 5-foot centers). The structural version uses a 4-inch at 5.4 lbs structural steel channel rated at 3,750 lbs at 10-foot centers (8,000 lbs at 5-foot centers). Both share the same 540 lb per-roller capacity and 11-gauge roller construction.
Choose the structural version when your application involves concentrated heavy loads, permanent installation where frame rigidity is critical, or continuous-duty conveyor lanes that handle loads near the upper capacity range throughout the shift.
Applications
The structural 251S is built for the most demanding gravity conveyor applications. Typical uses include permanent pallet transfer lanes in manufacturing and distribution, heavy drum and container handling in chemical and petroleum facilities, automotive assembly plant dunnage rack movement, structural steel and heavy component staging, continuous-duty production lines where conveyors run loaded throughout the shift, and high-throughput loading dock operations with heavy mixed freight.
Selection Assistance
The structural 251S is the right choice when you need the highest frame rigidity in the Roach 2.5-inch lineup. For lighter loads or temporary installations, the standard 251S with its formed 7-gauge channel is a more economical alternative with the same per-roller capacity. For lighter loads in the 2.5-inch class, the LEWCO 2514 (14 ga., 290 lbs/roller) provides an entry-level option.
Barron Equipment provides conveyor system planning, installation, and service support across Iowa, Illinois, and parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska. Request a quote to determine the right frame construction for your application.