Abstract

An accumulating conveyor comprising a frame on which a plurality of horizontally spaced apart power rollers are positioned for propelling articles along the conveyor. Each power roller includes a tubular metal roller member terminating at opposite ends and having an axial passageway extending between and through its opposite ends. A motor driven drive shaft which is mounted on the frame extends through the roller member's passageway and supports a friction drive member formed of powdered metal and impregnated with a lubricant. The friction drive member is positioned in the passageway in frictional engagement with the roller member and rotates conjointly with the drive shaft. Rotation of the drive shaft is transmitted by the friction drive member to propel the articles along the conveyor. When the movement of the article is restrained, the friction drive member slips in the passageway relative to the roller member so that the roller member remains motionless.