Rotary Accumulators

Also known as turntable accumulators, these buffering machines store containers or packages on a flat rotating disk, for example, filled pharmaceutical vials.

Category Explained

Rotary Accumulators, also known as turntable accumulators or accumulating rotary tables, feature a flat, rotating disk designed to temporarily store and regulate the flow of containers or packages. Positioned either upstream or downstream of packaging machinery, these accumulators serve as a buffer to smooth out inconsistencies in line speed or temporary stoppages. As products move onto the rotating surface, they are gently guided in a circular motion, providing critical time for downstream equipment to catch up without halting upstream operations. Their consistent, low-pressure motion helps protect product integrity while supporting continuous throughput.

These systems are commonly used in operations requiring gentle handling and space efficiency, particularly for cylindrical or semi-rigid containers. They can act as unscramblers before filling or as accumulation points after labeling, capping, or inspection. Key features include:

  • Flat rotating surface for consistent product accumulation and flow
  • Adjustable speed controls to sync with line pace and avoid pressure buildup
  • Smooth, low-impact motion that prevents tipping, scuffing, or damage
  • Compact design ideal for small spaces or lower-volume lines
  • Simple construction for ease of cleaning, maintenance, and integration

Typical products and applications include:

  • Filled pharmaceutical vials: Buffered before packaging to maintain orderly flow
  • Glass or plastic bottles: Accumulated between filling and capping stations to prevent line delays
  • Cosmetic jars and containers: Held for inspection or secondary packaging with minimal agitation
  • Food and beverage cans: Temporarily stored post-labeling or before case packing
  • Household product bottles: Aligned and collected for batching or manual packing processes

Rotary accumulators offer a reliable and flexible way to manage product flow in various packaging environments, especially where precision, gentle handling, and compact design are essential.