Efficiency is the key to a successful warehouse or manufacturing operation. If product begins to backup in one or more parts of your process, the resulting disruptions can have a disastrous effect on your bottom line.
There are many pieces of equipment on the market designed to improve throughput and ensure that materials move as efficiently as possible. One example is the accumulation conveyor—an essential piece of equipment for maximizing the productivity of your operation.
As the name suggests, accumulation conveyors allow product to accumulate in one part of the line while processes further down the line catch up. The conveyor can stop and start as needed to accommodate the productivity level down the line, preventing overwhelming product jams.
Whether propelled by belts, rollers or chains, accumulation conveyors all work in a similar fashion. Sensors installed above the conveyor detect when product is on the line, starting and stopping the conveyor as needed based on accumulation.
There are two main varieties of accumulation conveyor systems: minimum pressure, and zero pressure systems. Minimum pressure systems allow accumulated products to touch each other while on the conveyor. These applications are useful for palletizing identical items that won’t be damaged by contact. Zero pressure systems use sensors to create space between each individual item on the conveyor. These applications are better for fragile products.
Choosing the right type of accumulation conveyor comes down to that material that the system will be tasked with handling. Whichever type you select, these systems offer several advantages for boosting operational productivity. Accumulation conveyors create a buffer for pickers and packers to perform their tasks without product backup. They are also a useful tool for quality assurance, allowing time for individual parts or pieces to receive inspection without slowing the line.
For any warehouse or manufacturing process involving sorting, picking, or merging of product, accumulation conveyors are an invaluable asset for improved productivity. UMD’s ZonAcc accumulation system is a patented, multiuse conveyor that provides efficient zero pressure accumulation. ZonAcc can also provide gravity zone accumulation, which requires no motors. This makes for cost-efficient zone control. ZonAcc is also available in a positive-drive configuration that can span long distances with a single motor.
From design to installation, UMD’s engineers can provide a customized accumulation system to meet the exact needs your operation. Contact us today to learn how UMD Automated Systems can improve your business’ productivity.