Accumulator Rolls

Accumulator Rolls
Core Construction
The stability and load-bearing capacity of an accumulator roll start with its core. This component must maintain concentricity and structural integrity under constant pressure, speed changes, and material impact.
- Core Materials: Steel for maximum strength, stainless steel for corrosion resistance, or aluminum for weight-sensitive applications.
- Wall Thickness & Diameter: Calculated to minimize deflection; core geometry matched to application-specific load and speed requirements.
- Machining Tolerances: Journal and bearing seats finished to ±0.001", with balanced rotation for high-speed lines.
- Dynamic Balancing: ISO 1940 G2.5 or better to eliminate vibration and reduce bearing wear.
- Recoverability: Cores designed for multiple strip-and-recover cycles without structural degradation.
Urethane Covering
The urethane covering defines how the roll contacts and handles the web material. It must provide both surface protection and performance longevity in continuous operation.
- Durometer Range: 70A–95A Shore A, selected for optimal compression set resistance and grip.
- Cover Thickness: 0.25"–6.0"+ for wear allowance and deflection absorption.
- Performance Testing: Abrasion (ASTM D4060), tear strength (ASTM D624), and compression set (ASTM D395) validation.
- Surface Options: Smooth ground for delicate webs; rough ground or diamond-grooved for increased traction, even in oily or wet conditions.
- Bonding Process: Grit-blasted core, two-part primer system, heat-cured urethane casting for maximum adhesion strength.
Accumulator-Specific Performance
Accumulator rolls face unique operational demands as they store and release web material during line stops or speed changes. This requires precise tolerances and materials that can hold up to constant cycling.
- Low Compression Set: Retains shape under prolonged static load.
- Consistent Surface Traction: Prevents slippage and maintains tension control.
- Precision Tolerances: Surface runout (TIR) held to ≤0.002" for high-speed web alignment.
Shaft & Journal Design
Shaft and journal configurations ensure the roll integrates seamlessly with your line’s drive and bearing systems.
- Materials: Cold-rolled steel, stainless steel, or specialty alloys.
- End Configurations: Keyed, tapped, threaded, or flanged per drive and mounting requirements.
- Bearing Fits: H7/g6 or H7/h6 tolerances for proper bearing engagement.
Load, Speed, & Environmental Ratings
Each roll is engineered to match the operational limits of your line while withstanding environmental challenges.
- Dynamic Load Capacity: Engineered for continuous cycling under maximum line tension.
- Operating Speeds: Rated for high RPM with verified bonding strength.
- Temperature Range: -20°F to 180°F standard; up to 200°F with high-temperature urethane.
- Chemical Resistance: Formulations available for oils, greases, solvents, and cleaning agents.
- Moisture Resistance: Hydrolysis-stable urethane for humid or washdown environments.
- Static Control: Anti-static and conductive options for sensitive applications.
Maintenance & Recovering Services
Designing for longevity includes planning for cost-effective maintenance. Our rolls are built for multiple recovery cycles without compromising performance.
- Strip & Recover: Existing cores stripped and re-coated to OEM or upgraded specifications.
- Inspection: Core, journals, and diameters verified before and after recovery.
- Emergency Turnaround: Expedited services available to reduce downtime.
- Traceability: Part numbers and service records maintained for repeat orders.
Proven Applications
Urethane accumulator rolls from Universal Urethane are proven in industries where high-speed web handling and surface protection are critical.
- Roll forming and metal processing
- Food and beverage production
- Printing and packaging
- Material handling and conveyor systems
- Automotive manufacturing
- Paper and textile industries
Contact Us
Contact our technical team to specify a new accumulator roll build or to schedule a recover service. Our engineering support ensures you receive rolls matched to your line’s exact performance requirements.



