Check List: Criteria for Accumulating Conveyor Systems

November 27, 2012

There are many factors to consider when planning for Accumulation. The product information, area available and accumulation time must be taken into consideration. High speed production lines require accumulation to make sure that the generating unit continues to run during malfunctions of downstream equipment. If the generating unit is idle, the production can be lost forever and a certain amount of product or packages can be damaged during the stop and start cycles.

There are three main considerations when researching an accumulation solution.
 

1. Consider the product weight, shape and packaging. Is the product stable when conveyed? Can the product handle back pressure to accumulate? The type of product may be the defining factor in the best accumulation choice for the application.
2. Determine the area available for the equipment. In some production floor layouts, there may be conveyors overhead which would eliminate most of the vertical accumulation solutions. Similarly m the floor layout may be already crowded and the only way to accumulate is to go up.
3. Calculate the amount of accumulation time needed. This will affect either the footprint or the height of the equipment, depending on the type of equipment.

Once the accumulation equipment types are narrowed down, parameters need to be identified in order to confirm the final engineered accumulation solution. The above list can be used to make sure that you are choosing the right accumulation solution for your application. A reliable accumulation system results in more production, less waste and decreased manpower.

For more information download our white paper “Choosing the Right Accumulation Solution for your Application.”