Zero-Pressure Conveyors
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Control Accumulation & Reduce Product Damage
Zero-pressure accumulation conveyors use individually controlled zones to keep products separated as they move through the system. Sensors detect product position and signal each zone when to stop or release a product.
When the downstream zone is occupied, the upstream product remains stopped. Once space becomes available, the conveyor releases the product and allows it to advance. Depending on the conveyor design, this may be accomplished by engaging and disengaging the rollers or by using pneumatic components to control roller power.
Zero-pressure systems can also use different accumulation strategies. Simulated zero-pressure accumulation typically handles one product per zone, while dynamic zero-pressure accumulation can accommodate products of varying lengths across multiple zones.
This allows cartons, totes, and other products to accumulate while reducing back pressure, product damage, and jams.
Zero-Pressure Conveyor Applications
Accumulation & Buffering
Create controlled product queues between processes without product-to-product contact.
Packaging Lines
Buffer products between case packing, labeling, inspection, and other packaging processes.
Sortation & Distribution
Control product flow before merges, diverts, sorters, and shipping areas.
Fragile Products
Reduce contact between products where damage is a concern.
Comparing Zero Pressure & Minimum Pressure
| Zero Pressure | Minimum Pressure |
|---|---|
| Products remain separated | Products may contact |
| Sensors control individual accumulation zones | Reduced drive pressure limits contact force |
| Zones stop and release products as space becomes available | Products can continue accumulating with limited pressure |
| Better for sensitive or damage-prone products | Works where some product contact is acceptable |
| Greater control over product flow | Simpler accumulation approach |
Zero-Pressure Conveyor Configurations
Zero-pressure accumulation systems can be customized for your product, required accumulation capacity, and operating environment. Depending on the application, RMH can integrate roller or belt conveyor designs with sensors and controls to manage product movement through individual zones.
Other configuration options include:
✓ Roller & belt configurations
✓ Adjustable accumulation zones
✓ Variable speeds up to 120 FPM, depending on product weight
✓ Cartons, totes, and parcels
✓ Light and heavy-duty applications up to 4,000 pound capacity
Customizing Your Zero-Pressure Conveyor System
Product size, weight, throughput, and accumulation requirements all influence how a zero-pressure conveyor system should be designed. RMH evaluates how products need to accumulate, release, and interact with surrounding equipment before recommending a solution.
Other key considerations include:
✓ Product Size & Weight
✓ Zone Length
✓ Accumulation Capacity
✓ Throughput Requirements
✓ Product Spacing
✓ Equipment Integration
