Food Manufacturing

Boosting efficiency in hazardous areas

Energy saving in hazardous Ex environments is about using smarter and more integrated valve, actuator and positioning systems, say the fluid control experts at Burkert Fluid Control Systems.

20th October 2010

RFID operator identification is easy to integrate in machines

The continuous integration of RFID in the field of automation makes it easy to link machine and system terminals in logistics, production tracing and industrial IT structures. Most systems are based on the 13.56MHz RFID (radio frequency identification) frequency, which means that B&R's latest RFID innovation is compatible with ISO 14443 and ISO 15693. This enables easy user identification at the control unit. In the field of machine and systems manufacturing, fast and secure user identification at the user interface ensures a high level of security; users simply hold their tag or user ID up to the device for identification. The distance limitation of just a few centimetres from the read/write unit helps to prevent unintentional identification of an employee who might be simply passing by.

18th October 2010

ODS-B electrical linear actuators offer speed and precision

Parker Hannifin's Parker-Origa Division is launching the ODS-B series of electrical linear actuators that have developed for use in applications requiring highly dynamic movements and long transverses. With its toothed belt design, the ODS-B combines excellent performance characteristics and smooth operation with outstanding energy efficiency, while also providing a long service life.

9th October 2010

Four-CCD linescan camera detects NIR, red, blue and green

Stemmer Imaging UK can now offer the novel JAI LQ-200CL four-CCD colour linescan camera, which uses the prism basis. Already well known for three-CCD colour linescan cameras such as the CV-L108CL, JAI has added a fourth channel to provide NIR (near infrared) imaging. Capable of simultaneous imaging of NIR, red, blue and green light through four independent channels but the same optical path, the innovative LQ-200CL enables identification of an even wider set of defects (including sub-surface imaging) on inspected objects. It can be used in a host of different industries.

6th October 2010

Enamel-coated pH sensors offer advantages over glass types

The monitoring of the pH of liquid media in high-end hygienic processes - in biotechnology, pharmaceutical and food processing - ensures not only that legal requirements are met, but also that quality standards are maintained, thereby reducing cost and ensuring optimum yields.

19th September 2010

Felten Group to supply Pilot MES system globally to Symrise

UK company Products4Automation (P4A) could benefit from a worldwide framework agreement between Symrise and the Felten Group for the introduction of Felten Pilot MES systems. Symrise is among the four largest providers of fragrance and flavouring substances, and base and active cosmetic ingredients worldwide, and is active in more than 35 countries. Under the framework agreement Felten will provide its Pilot MES system to Symrise plants globally, including those in Great Britain, where Felten is seeking to conclude an agreement with P4A to act as the company's Pilot distributor.

19th September 2010

New hoods and housings for stainless steel connectors

Harting is launching new hoods and housings for its Han-INOX stainless steel industrial connectors. Designed for use in harsh environments in process industries such as food and drink manufacture, as well as for outdoor use, the Han-INOX range now offers enhanced application flexibility with the availability of new angled hoods, bulkhead mount housings and surface-mount housings in the Han 3 A size.

19th September 2010

PW27 platform load cell meets EHEDG requirements

HBM is launching the PW27 platform load cell, claiming that it is the only such product on the market to meet the EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group) guidelines for applications in the food sector.

11th September 2010

IP65 inverter drives now available in power ratings up to 22kW

Lenze is extending its range of SMV IP65 frequency inverters with four new powers up to 22kW. Dimensions and costs have been kept low by the use of a cooling fan that maintains the high ingress protection level. This means that no more panel space is needed - which is very useful when upgrading existing machinery - and reduces costs on new machine designs. The SMV has found wide acceptance in food production, bakery mixers, conveyors, pumps and vacuum compressors.

7th September 2010

SteelFace inductive sensors resist physical and chemical attack

Balluff SteelFace inductive proximity sensors are designed and built to survive longer in the abusive applications. Machined from a single piece of stainless steel, the sensor's housing has an integral 1mm-thick steel face that is resistant to impacts, chemicals, cutting fluids and abrasion.

26th August 2010