A table top conveyor moves containers single file along a chain of interlocking flat top plates. The flat plates are stronger than modular belting and the chain turns curves and changes elevation in one continuous line, so bottles, cans, jars, cartons, and cases travel through a production layout without transfer points between straight segments.

Table top conveyor at a glance

A table top conveyor uses a chain of flat top plates, in plastic or stainless steel, to carry stable containers in a single lane at production speed. Its defining strength is layout flexibility: one chain follows curves, makes turns, and climbs or descends grade changes without breaking the line into separate conveyors. The flat plates carry more load and run more reliably than modular belting for single-file container flow, and stainless and clean-frame versions handle washdown and clean-room environments. Plates come in open-top frames for industrial duty and closed-top frames where cleaning matters. Table top differs from mat top, which is a wider modular plastic belt for full-width product flow rather than single-lane container handling.

How does a table top conveyor work?

A table top conveyor runs an endless chain of hinged flat top plates over a wear strip, driven by a motor and gear set at one end. Each plate links to the next, so the chain flexes horizontally around curves and vertically over elevation changes while keeping a flat carrying surface. Containers sit directly on the plates and move in a single lane, guided by side rails. Because the chain articulates, a single table top conveyor can route product through a winding production layout that would otherwise need several straight belt segments joined by transfers. Plate material is matched to the product and environment, with stainless steel and friction-top options for bottling, food, and washdown lines.

Table top conveyor specifications

Verified against Nercon TableTop product data and partner documentation. Final configuration is engineered to the container, line speed, and environment.

Where are table top conveyors used?

Bottling and beverage. Moving bottles and cans single file between filling, labeling, and packaging.

Food and packaging. Conveying jars, cartons, and containers on sanitary or washdown lines.

Single-file feeding. Returning accumulated product to one lane for downstream equipment.

Winding layouts. Routing product around curves and elevation changes without transfer points.

Warehouse and DC lines. Carrying cartons and cases where a flexible single-lane path saves space.

What is the difference between table top and mat top?

A table top conveyor uses a narrow chain of flat top plates to move containers in a single lane, and it excels at curves and tight layouts. A mat top conveyor uses a wider modular plastic belt built from linked mats to carry full-width product flow. Choose table top for single-file containers like bottles and cans through a winding line. Choose mat top when product moves in mass across the full belt width. Both are unit-handling systems, not bulk conveyors.

Plan a table top conveyor

HOJ engineers and integrates table top conveyors as an independent integrator, pairing Nercon and FMH flat top chain platforms with your container, line speed, and layout. Talk to a specialist.