Product Offerings
Product Categories:
Food Processing Equipment, Packaging Solutions, Food Processing Machines and Equipment, Packaging
Products:
Drum Motors: SSV Series, Grizzly Series, IntelliDrive Series
Product Gallery:
Van der Graaf (VDG) is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance drum motors used to drive conveyor systems across a variety of industries. Headquartered in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, the company has become a benchmark in conveyor drive technology, offering energy-efficient, maintenance-reducing solutions for industrial automation and material handling.
Company History and Expansion
Founded in the early 1980s, Van der Graaf began its journey in North America with a vision to revolutionize conveyor technology. Over the decades, VDG has expanded its operations with manufacturing facilities and service centers in Canada, the United States, and Europe. The company’s commitment to in-house engineering and innovation has positioned it as a preferred supplier to top-tier OEMs and end-users in food processing, logistics, mining, and packaging industries.
Core Business and Product Range
VDG’s core business is centered around the development of electric drum motors, which integrate the motor, gear reducer, and bearings inside the drum, streamlining conveyor drive systems.
Main Product Categories:
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SSV Series Drum Motors: Designed for sanitary applications like food and pharmaceutical processing. Built to IP69K standards, easy to clean, and corrosion-resistant.
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Grizzly Series Drum Motors: Heavy-duty models for industries like mining, aggregate, and construction, built for rugged environments with superior torque handling.
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IntelliDrive Drum Motors: The latest innovation featuring integrated variable frequency drive (VFD) and permanent magnet motors for precise speed control and efficiency optimization.
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Cross Drives & Belt Cleaners: Supporting technologies that enhance conveyor performance and cleanliness.
Specialization and Competitive Advantages
Van der Graaf stands out through its internal gearless design (in IntelliDrive models) and maintenance-free sealed units, offering:
- Up to 40% energy savings compared to traditional conveyor drives
- Fully enclosed, oil-lubricated design that minimizes downtime
- IP66 to IP69K ingress protection, ideal for high-pressure washdown environments
- Reduction in component footprint, lowering system complexity
The company offers custom solutions tailored to specific application needs, and its systems comply with industry standards including FDA, EHEDG, and CE certifications for hygiene and safety.
Export and Shipment Insights
Based on trade data from ImportYeti and Volza, Van der Graaf maintains a robust export operation:
- Over 500 international shipments recorded between 2020–2023
- Export destinations include United States, Germany, Mexico, Australia, and South Korea
- Main importing industries: automated warehousing, food and beverage, bulk handling, and postal logistics
Market Reach and Client Segments
VDG serves a diverse customer base, including:
- Food processors and packaging companies
- Distribution centers and logistics firms (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
- Mining and aggregate operations
- Airport baggage handling systems
Its client base includes OEMs, system integrators, and end-users looking for reliable, high-performance conveyor drives.
Manufacturing Capabilities
VDG’s vertically integrated production model includes:
- CNC machining and precision fabrication
- In-house motor winding and gear manufacturing
- Dynamic balancing and testing of drum motors
- Research and development center for custom engineering
All VDG motors are assembled and tested in North America, with full quality control over every production stage.
Compliance and Certifications
Van der Graaf’s equipment is designed and certified to meet the needs of global markets:
- UL and CSA certified for North America
- CE compliant for Europe
- IP66/IP69K rated for ingress protection
- Hygienic design standards including EHEDG and FDA compliance for food contact applications
Customer Feedback and Performance
VDG motors are frequently praised for their low maintenance, long life span, and energy efficiency.
“Switching to VDG IntelliDrive saved us 30% in energy costs and drastically reduced motor failures.” — Facility Engineer, Major U.S. Food Producer
“The hygienic design of the SSV series significantly improved our sanitation protocols in meat processing.” — Operations Manager, Global Meat Processor
Key Achievements and Recognition
- First to introduce IntelliDrive technology combining VFD and PM motor in a drum motor
- Selected vendor for Amazon’s logistics automation systems
- Participation in major industrial trade shows including Pack Expo, IPPE, and ProMat
- Recognized for energy-efficiency innovation in material handling by leading industry publications
Van der Graaf continues to push the envelope of innovation, offering reliable, efficient, and sustainable drive solutions that meet the evolving needs of global industries.