AQ-HC: New possibilities for package accumulation

To ensure regulation of packaging lines, the accumulation table varies the operating speed of other machines in order to adapt to production needs, compensate for machine shutdown and manage continuous flow of products. Its final goal? To guarantee continuous, harmonious production. In other words, production yield and therefore profitability. With AQ-HC, Sidel is enriching the AQ-Max range by adopting a new, patented accumulation principle, which is particularly adapted to high-speed production up to 160,000 bottles per hour.Faster responsivenessDue to a wider inlet, the AQ-HC offers increased responsiveness. It immediately adapts to large variations in production flows and can easily absorb large quantities of product at a Combi outlet, for example. The responsiveness of accumulation is also based on the use of the best automation technologies. Ultrasonic sensors are used upstream for precise detection of flows, while downstream, the use of a mechatronic drive system (Movigear™) enables quick, smooth variation of conveyor speeds. Between machines, it’s all a matter of smart management! The modular design of the Sidel PLC, which processes input and translates it into orders for the conveyors and machines, enables precise, optimal management of flows between two machines ensuring excellent overall performance. Finally, the reliability of the AQ-HC is due to the simplicity of its shape: a compact, open, entirely accessible table enables easy integration into a complete line, whether new or existing. It is capable of handling a wide range of container types and formats in different configurations, and therefore it can be adapted to any type of production.Variable, dynamic accumulation    This principle combines the splitting of the table into two opposing flows and uses a curved, mobile guide in order to obtain variable, dynamic accumulation. The result? The use of all infeed chains for accumulation and the added length provides the AQ-HC with maximum accumulation potential and an optimum footprint for accumulation, with 100% use of the effective space. Combined with the table’s balanced proportions, this new system guarantees the absence of pressure on the bottles as well as First In, First Out (FIFO) management of product flows, which is essential for good production traceability.