What is an indexing conveyor? A conveyor that moves product in fixed steps with a pause between them, rather than running continuously. The pause holds the product still so a machine or an operator can work on it.
What is the difference between indexing and accumulation? Indexing controls how product moves — a set distance, then a stop. Accumulation controls how product waits, gathering it at a point so the line either side keeps running. Many lines use both, in different places.
How accurate can the index be? That depends on the drive, the position feedback and the product itself. A servo drive with encoder feedback holds position far more tightly than a fixed-speed motor on a timer, but a product that slides or rocks on the belt will limit accuracy whatever the drive is capable of.
Can an existing conveyor be converted to index? Sometimes. It depends on the drive and gearbox already fitted, whether there is room to add position feedback, and whether the frame and belt can take repeated acceleration and braking. It is worth assessing the existing conveyor before assuming either way.
What controls the indexing? A PLC running the sequence, taking signals from sensors and the drive and deciding when to move and when to hold. Most of the flexibility sits in that logic, so changes to index length or dwell time are usually a programming change rather than a mechanical one.
Does indexing slow the line down? Compared with continuous running at the same belt speed, yes — each cycle costs acceleration, dwell and deceleration. Whether that matters depends on how fast the operation at the station is, since that is usually what sets the pace anyway.
Where do you cover? We are based in Finglas, Dublin 11 and work with manufacturers across Ireland.
