Continuous Operation: The most fundamental function is to continuously collect and transport chips away from the cutting zone and the machine's interior. This allows for uninterrupted machining, enhancing overall productivity.
Prevents Accumulation: Without a conveyor, chips would quickly pile up in the machine, interfering with the cutting tool, the workpiece, and the machine's moving parts.

2. Maintains a Clean and Safe Work Environment:

Work Area Cleanliness: By constantly removing chips, the conveyor keeps the machine's work area clean and free of obstructions. This improves visibility for the operator and prevents chips from building up and potentially damaging machine components.
Reduces Manual Labor and Hazards: Eliminates the need for manual chip removal during operation, which is a tedious, time-consuming, and potentially hazardous task (chips can be hot, sharp, or coated in coolant). This enhances operator safety.
Prevents Slips and Falls: Keeps the floor around the machine free of chips and coolant, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

3. Protects Machine Tool Components:

Prevents Damage to Precision Parts: Chips, especially long or stringy ones, can jam moving parts, entangle around spindles, or get caught in guideways, leading to costly damage to the machine's precision components. The conveyor prevents this.
Manages Heat Buildup: Hot chips accumulating in the machine can cause temperature fluctuations in the machine's bed, table, and column, which can negatively affect machining accuracy and precision. The conveyor removes this heat source.

4. Facilitates Coolant Management and Recycling:

Coolant Separation: Most chip conveyors are designed to separate chips from the cutting fluid (coolant). They allow the coolant to drain back into the machine's sump or a separate filtration system while only conveying the solid chips.
Maintains Coolant Integrity: By removing solid contaminants, the conveyor helps keep the coolant clean, extending its life, improving its effectiveness, and preventing it from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. This leads to better surface finishes on parts and longer tool life.
Reduces Coolant Carry-out: Some conveyor designs are optimized to minimize the amount of coolant carried out with the chips, reducing coolant loss and replenishment costs.

5. Aids in Chip Disposal and Recycling:

Centralized Collection: Chips are transported to a designated collection bin or hopper (e.g., a drum or larger container), making their eventual disposal or recycling much more organized and efficient.
Environmental Responsibility: Efficient chip management contributes to a cleaner manufacturing process and supports recycling efforts for metal chips.