At Automac we understand the critical role that accumulation zones play in maintaining a seamless production flow. Our innovative designs ensure uninterrupted operations by providing a buffer against disruptions caused by equipment malfunctions or delays.

With our accumulation solutions, we create zones where products can temporarily accumulate, allowing your manufacturing line to continue smoothly once an issue is resolved. These accumulation zones act as a safety net, preventing bottlenecks and protecting against potential damage caused by excessive product buildup.

We specialize in designing and installing a diverse range of accumulation systems. Our expertise lies in crafting tailored solutions to meet your specific requirements. Central to all our accumulation systems are conveyors, each offering its unique advantages and considerations.

The Band Driven Roller (BDR) is a commonly used conveyor in packing areas. It features a drive shaft spanning the length of the conveyor, connected to each roller by drive bands. BDR conveyors are versatile and can be used for accumulation with drop stops or blade stops, as well as line breaks. Drop stops lower the rollers to create a stationary surface for products to stop against, while blade stops lift through the rollers to halt boxes. Line breaks apply pressure to the rollers, preventing movement. By combining these elements, the BDR conveyor ensures product safety by stopping it (via drop stops or blade stops) and engaging line breaks to prevent roller movement, reducing the risk of product damage.

The Modular Driven Roller (MDR) is a versatile conveyor suitable for various environments. It incorporates a DC drive roller connected in series with slave rollers through drive bands. The motors are typically powered and controlled using drive cards equipped with configurable onboard logic. One commonly used configuration for accumulation is Zero Pressure Accumulation (ZPA). ZPA systems enable non-contact accumulation of products, eliminating the need for physical contact and pressure between items. Unlike traditional accumulation systems, ZPA ensures that no contact occurs, thus eliminating the risk of product damage during accumulation.

Modular belt conveyors are highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of industries. Their flexibility is evident in the numerous available configurations, allowing for the accumulation of various products, including bottles and cardboard cartons. When used in accumulation systems, modular belts are often equipped with insert rollers, facilitating low-friction contact between the product and the conveyor belt. This design enables the accumulation of larger quantities of products, making it particularly advantageous for applications requiring substantial accumulation zones. Moreover, the use of insert rollers eliminates wear on the belt surface, increasing its lifespan. In some cases, flat top accumulation is preferred, especially for smaller products where rollers are unsuitable. For such applications, low friction plastics are employed, and various control methods are implemented to minimize product damage while maintaining efficiency.

Tab and chain conveyors are a highly effective option for accumulation systems, especially when dealing with smaller products such as ice cream tubs or custard cartons. These conveyors utilize low friction plastics, similar to modular belts, to facilitate smooth movement and accumulation. One of the key advantages of tab and chain conveyors is their compact and slim construction making them ideal for tight production areas where space is limited.