Reflow Accumulation Table "Raises" Changeover Efficiency

May 13, 2011

The Shop Floor Snap Shot this week is a Reflow Accumulation Table that handles round and non-round containers using simple (table-full status) controls. During a downstream production blockage, products back-up onto the accumulation table where two wide belts traveling in opposite direction create a recirculating motion. The Reflow Accumulation table is designed to recirculate products until short-term downstream blockages are cleared.

I wanted to highlight this low-cost, low back-pressure accumulation solution because of its changeover features. Simple guide rail adjustments, on the infeed and discharge conveyors, is all that is needed between product sizes. 

The other changeover feature is the hold-down cover. In this accumulator, the cover was added to stabilize the tapered ice cream containers while recirculating on the table. The cover was engineered with a hand-wheel height adjustment for different product sizes. The adjustable cover prevents containers from jumping during accumulation, provides quick and easy changeover and includes access doors for ease of maintenance.