MDR – Motor Driven Live Roller conveyor is a relatively new type of conveyor. It uses small DC motors to slave drive transportation rollers. Often, the motor is built into a roller. These small motors are distributed through out the conveyor and each motor becomes an accumulation zone. Simple controller cards are used to control the motor speed and direction. These cards also have inputs for photo eyes to control zone accumulation. 
There are many advantages to using MDR as opposed to traditional AC motor conveyors. The small size and distributed nature of MDR systems make them ideal for accumulation without the need of PLC’s or complex pneumatic systems. Transportation rollers are slave driven with bands that are easy to replace compared to line shaft conveyors. Belts can be used on top of MDR rollers for inclines, declines or speed changes.
To learn more about MDR systems give us a call.