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Accumulation Conveyor Overview

Accumulation conveyors are commonly used in industries such as e-commerce, distribution, and logistics. They are designed to temporarily halt or slow down the movement of items on a conveyor line, allowing for the controlled collection of products before they continue downstream.

This type of system is especially useful in applications where products need time for quality control, labeling, sorting, or packaging. They help prevent bottlenecks in production lines and ensure that products move through the system at a controlled pace, reducing the risk of damage or jams.

Market Types

Types of Accumulation Conveyor

24v Zero Pressure
Narrow Belt Min Pressure
Poly Bag
24v Zero Pressure

Using 24v motorized rollers to drive one zone, photo eye sensors allow product to index forward only when the zone ahead is clear of product. Product does not touch in this style of accumulation.

Best Fits:

  • Energy conscious customers who prefer conveyor to run on demand
  • Work areas where people manipulate boxes
  • Systems with a wide variety of mixed cartons being placed by hand
Narrow Belt Min Pressure

Using a flat belt drive, the conveyor uses pneumatic pans to apply drive pressure to the rollers. Photo eye sensors on the sides of the conveyor activate or disengage the pans, allowing the drive pressure to drop, and product coasts to a stop. Product coasts to a stop against product in the forward zone.

Best Fits:

  • High-throughput requirements
  • Similar sized cases/totes
Poly Bag

24v zero style accumulation utilizing small belts that cover the entire roller zone. This allows all product to remain on belt throughout the length of the conveyor, eliminating gaps caused from roller spacing. Ideal for poly bag handling, carton scanning, and carton presentation where control and placement is critical.

Best Fits:

  • E commerce centers where poly bags are common
  • Print and apply or scanning applications where precise control is needed.
  • Raw product conveyance when product is loose from packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the purpose of an accumulation conveyor?

    The primary purpose is to prevent congestion and manage the controlled accumulation of products. It ensures a consistent and efficient flow of items in situations where downstream processes may not operate at the same speed as the conveyor.

  • How does an accumulation conveyor work?

    Accumulation conveyors typically use sensors (e.g., photoeyes) to detect the presence of products on the conveyor. When a sensor detects a product in an accumulation zone, the conveyor stops or slows down, allowing products behind it to accumulate. When the downstream area is ready, products are released one at a time or in small groups.

  • What types of products are best suited for accumulation conveyors?

    Accumulation conveyors are suitable for a wide range of products, from small items like bottles and boxes to larger and heavier items. They are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and packaging.

  • Can accumulation conveyors be customized for specific applications?

    Yes, accumulation conveyors can be customized to fit specific production layouts and requirements. They can be configured with different types of accumulation zones and sensors to meet the needs of different industries.

  • Do accumulation conveyors require a lot of maintenance?

    Like any mechanical system, accumulation conveyors require regular maintenance to ensure they operate smoothly. However, they are designed for durability and reliability in industrial environments.