Issue 33 2020
Consus Fresh launch innovative AI based label verification solution Surviving the ‘new normal’: investing in agile technologies is key to a resilient food and beverage industry Envirogen Group launches new e-commerce offering with launch of Envi Purified Water for Sale
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02
Contents
The Team Editor Amanda Buckingham editor@fdpp.co.uk
Digital Sales Manager Jessica Bennett T: 01227 392571
Business Manager Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk
Digital Manager Jamie Bullock jamie@fdpp.co.uk Tel: 01227 392571
Publishing Director Martin Holmes martin@fdpp.co.uk
Studio Designer Richard Bland richard@mhmagazine.co.uk
M H Media Global Ltd.
Office 15, Second Floor, Innovation House, Discovery Park, Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, Kent, CT13 9FD
Features CONSUS AXIUM PROCESS GEA ENVIROGEN GROUP FEFPEB PENTAIR INFOR SIEMENS
< 08 < 12 < 14 < 20 < 28 < 32 < 52 < 56
Tel 01304 806039
www.fdpp.co.uk All web addresses are interactive, simply click the web address of your choice to view the company website. There is also a useful tool bar where you can search for a specific product. Please mention FDPP when responding to items in this issue.
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Food & Drink Process & Packaging however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by the contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including printing), recording or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior written consent of the publisher.
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 3
Advancements in Combination Systems to Include Vision Inspection Challenged by evolving regulatory and safety
traceability, product recalls and real-time
Food manufacturers grappling with these
demands, and with space at a premium in
authentication.
issues know that there are multiple
their production plants, food manufacturers can find a solution with combination product inspection systems. Here, Frank Borrmann,
Across the food manufacturing sector, increasingly strict regulations are placing
Market Manager Mettler-Toledo Garvens
greater emphasis on vision inspection
writes about taking this a stage further, with
technology as a means to enhance product
checkweighing and contaminant detection
quality and safety, as well as carry out the
technologies now also integrated with
data collection that creates the foundation
vision inspection technology within a single
for traceability.
device. This three-in-one solution gives manufacturers a non-stop view of packaging and label quality.
THE IMPORTANCE OF VISION INSPECTION There is a lot for food manufacturers to consider these days. Increasingly
COVID-19 has also contributed to the increased importance of vision inspection on the production line. For example, manual spot check sampling on the production line has been complicated by social distancing requirements, meaning fewer people
product inspection technologies – metal detection, x-ray, checkweighing, vision and track and trace – available that can help them respond to evolving market requirements: the problem has been physically fitting all of this equipment into already cramped production and packaging facilities.
THE SOLUTION The answer from product inspection technology providers such as MettlerToledo was to develop combination systems, using the checkweigher as the core technology. Traditionally,
can perform inspection duties within a
these combined two separate product
defined space. Yet they still need to carry
inspection technologies as standard - a
out that inspection task, especially since
checkweigher with a metal detector or
retailers are never shy of claiming financial
with an x-ray system within a single
compensation when products on their
frame. Now we can integrate three
these cases, the products are starting
shelves are found to have faulty barcoding.
technologies in one off-the-shelf system,
to be individually serialized helping to
Vision inspection requires no social
or even more as a customised solution,
add another layer of food safety and
distancing and can also check every single
saving a huge amount of factory floor
consumer protection such as instant
product.
space for our customers.
they need to be able to demonstrate traceability at both product and batch levels. This is especially so in ‘sensitive’ products, such as baby food, where the consumer is incredibly vulnerable. In
4 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
The key point is that these triple-
traditionally been difficult to set up and
thereby storing the product inspection
combination systems can incorporate
operate, requiring considerable time and
images externally. This has additional
vision inspection, with Mettler-Toledo’s
effort. Mettler-Toledo’s triple combination
benefits such as traceability, quick data
Product Data Check (PDC) smart camera
systems including vision inspection
retrieval and proving due diligence.
system being integrated into the existing
are now truly plug and play, supporting
C-Series checkweighers with either metal
easy product set-up and fast product
detection or x-ray inspection technology. A
changeovers via the checkweigher.
further combination solution is available; a checkweigher paired with a track and trace technology. Mettler-Toledo can further accommodate a wide range of custom developments, including multi-lane, multitechnology systems as well as building a range of accessories, such as printers, into the solution. The foundation stone to these product innovations is Mettler-Toledo’s modular C-Series range of checkweighers, which enables a wide degree of flexibility when integrating other product inspection technologies. The benefits that food manufacturers get from any integrated or combination solution are magnified further with a triple combination product inspection system: a huge amount of technology is packed into a small footprint, and they only need to deal with a single supplier to cover multiple needs.
IN CONCLUSION Combination product inspection systems meet a growing need in the marketplace.
Ongoing support will be from a single
Food manufacturers are challenged
supplier too – and one that provides
with ever more stringent demands,
highly sophisticated service and support
and consumer safety and regulatory
through technologies such as Augmented
compliance are among their highest
Reality-based remote diagnostic and
priorities. Technology is undoubtedly
repair services in which the engineer and
the answer, but space constraints are
the operator can interact via a live video
an issue for most food manufacturers.
stream to reduce downtime.
Integrated product inspection systems
CONTROL AT THE CCP One question that we are commonly asked by people when talking about our integrated product inspection solutions is what happens if one part of the system goes wrong – does this not drag the entire product inspection system offline?
provide a smart answer to these problems. Mettler-Toledo brings a flexible and modular approach to the market, open to customisation and with the ability to seamlessly integrate a range of advanced inspection technologies into a small footprint.
The short answer is no! All Critical Control
It means that manufacturers can now
Points (CCPs) remain alive, so that
monitor product, packaging and label
the combination system continues to
quality, and therefore address the
reject contaminated or non-conforming
many consumer safety, compliance and
products. All Human-Machine Interfaces
traceability challenges they face, all from
(HMIs) on any part of the combination
a single, compact device, serviced by a
This is certainly the case when they
system are integrated and communicate
single engineer that could solve problems
speak to Mettler-Toledo, at any rate.
with each other. If one HMI fails, another
from anywhere in the world.
Few companies can claim that they can
will take over and ensure that the CCP
produce all of these advanced product
continues to function. Mettler-Toledo
inspection technologies in-house. Mettler-
provides customer warranties on this
Toledo is one that can. We have succeeded
basis. This failsafe design ensures that
in completing the hard yards of integration
no contaminated product can reach the
– both for the software and the hardware.
marketplace.
This is particularly important when integrating vision inspection technology into combination systems, since it has
Register here for a free live webinar on combination systems with Frank Borrmann on 25th March 2021 For more information: www.mt.com/pi-combination-systems-pr
The 3 in 1 system can also be combined with ProdX™ data management software
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 5
Simplifying Robust Process Manufacturing Networks In today’s food and beverage processing
Food and beverage applications require
prevent unintentional control panel
environment robust and reliable end-to-
reliable network infrastructure for end
disruption by unauthorised personnel.
end network physical layer infrastructure
point devices and network connections.
Standard network cable is not designed
is required from the enterprise to the edge.
Structured cabling with fibre or copper
to be near high voltages. However,
This is essential in order to maximise the
is fed into zone enclosures which are
in industrial environments cables in
understanding and benefit of increased
engineered to accommodate the correct
control panels or near manufacturing
data flows and optimise the processes,
connection. The zone enclosure provides
machines are often in close contact.
increase safety and provide increasingly
downlinks to control panels, OEM skids
Panduit offers 600V rated solutions to
more management information.
and end devices. A consistent network
ensure the integrity of your network
infrastructure that distributes Ethernet
from high voltage interference.
As more industrial operations are linked to corporate networks, connectivity is pushed to devices that increase the number of network access points. Factories need solutions that manage and strengthen the facility infrastructure by implementing lockout/tagout products and tools to protect employees and infrastructure from hazards created by
beyond the control room and across the plant floor improves Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), increases network visibility and resiliency. Active and passive equipment architecture provides localised network traffic and reduces network redundancy and cost. Connecting systems across the plant
Implementing the appropriate cabling infrastructure from control panel to machine addresses effective cable routing, strain relief and environmental protection, which helps maximise plant uptime and ensures extended reliability. Industrial reference drawings are the concepts that provide control
energised systems.
floor results in consistent Ethernet
Implementing optimised industrial
guidelines you can deploy Ethernet
communication and linkage from
networks in a control panel environment.
enterprise throughout the plant floor
This results in higher performance,
enhances network uptime, allows
less susceptibility to EMI noise and
More information on food and drink
segregated networks, manages network
enhanced network security, together
processing networking infrastructure
security, provides network asset
with space optimisation. Additional
solutions is available at
visualisation and proactively reports
benefits include noise mitigation and
www.panduit.com or contact Panduit on
network information.
increased safety. Data access ports also
02086017319
6 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
node growth and utilising best practice
and network services for mixed environment Operational Technology and Information Technology. For more information visit https://bit.ly/39AjtCk
Is Your Infrastructure Friend or Foe? As technology advances and Industry 4.0 becomes a reality, the demands placed on your network and electrical infrastructure will only increase. To stay competitive, you need plant floor solutions that improve production efficiencies, turn operations data into actionable insights, and scale for future growth. From cable management for control panels to fully integrated industrial networks, Panduit solutions turn connectivity into a competitive advantage. To read our white paper on Edge IoT deployments, visit www.panduit.com/edgeiotdeployments. ®
INDUSTRIAL NETWORK ZONING | CONNECTIVITY | DISTRIBUTION FRAMES | CABLE MANAGEMENT | WIRING DUCT
infrastructure for a connected world
Consus Fresh Launch Innovative AI based Label Verification Solution
Checks
Consus Fresh Solutions, part of The
methods, at approximately 2 minutes
performing every check with the same
Affinitus Group; providing market
per label check. Repetition and human
speed and accuracy, whilst saving time
leading business management software
fatigue introduce a high risk of “label
and money.
solutions for the food and horticulture
blindness”, causing costly label errors
industries, have announced the
to be missed and miss-labelled product
A failure result will automatically halt
launch of a highly innovative Artificial
reaching the supermarket shelves.
production and issue automated alerts
Intelligence (AI) based label verification
Each un-detected error results in hefty
to relevant production staff with details
and quality control (QC) solution
fines, product re-work costs, loss of
of the failure. Similarly, a pass result
for the fresh produce pack-house.
reputation and sometimes loss of
can automatically trigger any “positive
The new solution could significantly
contracts, not to mention the food
release” processes and progression to
reduce packhouse QC labour costs and
safety risks from undeclared ingredients
dispatch.
boost operative productivity, whilst
or allergens. The solution can check any labelling
reducing Product Withdrawal Fines and The highly innovative AI-based Consus
information against a centrally stored
Label Verification solution takes
repository of client and product specific
Label Verification is a time and labour-
approximately 4 seconds to perform
labelling requirements, including,
intensive process that is required at
each label check. The solution uses
country of origin, picked from location,
multiple points during the fresh produce
Microsoft Azure cloud-based Artificial
product description, best before date,
packing process. A fresh produce
Intelligence to process each label
display until date, product class,
packhouse QC operative completes an
photograph and returns an immediate
destination customer, special offers and
average of 200 label checks per day,
pass or fail result. AI never experiences
allergen advice.
using pen and paper data collection
fatigue or loss of productivity,
associated costs due to labelling errors.
8 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Check - Failed The Consus Label Verification
and training and utilises off the shelf
supply innovative solutions to meet
solution comes at an affordable
hardware, allowing for cost effective,
both the requirements of the produce
monthly subscription price based
rapid rollout and support.
industry and also our goal to provide
on transactions, and can operate as
the latest technological solutions
a standalone tool, or be seamlessly
Peter Taylor, Technical Director
to drive efficiency, productivity,
used with existing Consus Packhouse
& Co-Founder at Consus Fresh
compliance and profitability in all our
solutions, or fully integrated via an API
Solutions said, “Today’s launch marks
customers.”
into existing production management
the culmination of an extensive
or ERP solutions. In addition, the
technology development project and
Further details on the solution can be
solution requires minimal installation
underpins Consus’ commitment to
found at: www.consusfresh.co.uk.
Check - History
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 9
Stay ahead of the processing & packaging pack with asset finance As we move forward in 2021, demands on the food and drink processing and packaging industry are rising. From the ever present need to maintain output and quality, while minimising costs; to consumer-driven calls for a reduction in the use of plastic; and the requirement to invest in new technology to remain competitive, the external pressures are mounting. Jon Maycock, Commercial Director at Propel Finance, explains: “It’s essential that businesses continue to drive investment in equipment at all stages of the production process, from primary and secondary processing through to packaging and end of line, to make
• Avoid a large capital outlay
and fast. Propel took the time to
• Spread the cost of the assets over time
understand the specific objectives of the
• Boost your cash flow
business and responded with a finance
“In the current challenging environment,
• Unleash your working capital
package to meet the tight timescales
asset finance has come into its own as
• Preserve your existing credit lines
required.
CASE STUDY: PROPEL SUPPORTS CORNWALL’S ORIGINAL SOFT DRINKS COMPANY IN DRIVING VITAL INVESTMENT
Cheryl Ingram, Managing Director at
productivity gains, achieve efficiencies and secure a competitive edge.
a leading funding solution enabling food and drink processing and packaging businesses to keep on going during the pandemic and even thrive. Asset refinance is also proving an increasingly popular option, allowing businesses to free up the cash tied up in their existing equipment.” Jon concluded. The advantages of asset finance to businesses are clear: • Access the most productive and
Jolly’s Drinks is a soft drinks manufacturer operating in the wholesale market, but legislative
Jolly’s, commented: “We were impressed with the overall level of support provided by Propel compared to other lenders. We’ve already gone to market with some of our new flavours – attracting new custom, increasing headcount and our turnover in the process – as a result
issues surrounding sugary goods and
of the support we received.”
single-use plastics, as well as changing
To discuss how you could benefit from
consumer tastes, meant that additional
efficient equipment and machinery
investment in new equipment was
immediately
required to move the company forward
an asset finance solution designed around your business, call Propel’s specialist team on 01633 982922 or email contact@propelfinance.co.uk. Finance is subject to status. Terms and Conditions Apply. Propel acts as a lender or a credit broker for business customers only.
Jon Maycock
10 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Cheryl Ingram
Flexible finance to power the food & drink processing & packaging industry Propel is a specialist asset finance lender, helping more than 40,000 businesses across the UK to access finance to acquire equipment and machinery quickly and easily. It is also one of the leading vendor finance platforms in the UK, supporting equipment suppliers with lease programmes. Recently, Barclays Business Banking announced its partnership with Propel to offer equipment and vehicle finance to one million of their SME customers via the new online technology platform.
In these challenging times, it is crucial to work with a specialist finance partner that knows your industry to help you drive your business forward. Whether you are looking to acquire the latest processing & packaging equipment to power your productivity and performance; or you are an equipment supplier seeking to win more business and sell more products and services by providing finance at point of sale.
The Perfect Package For Equipment Buyers… Competitive rates Flexible terms and deposits Specialist sector knowledge Tailor-made facilities Fast credit decisions And Equipment Sellers… Increase your sales Boost your profits Reduce your sales cycle Generate instant decisions Get paid faster
Equipment that Propel has financed recently includes: Vacuum Packaging Packing Machines Shrinking and Drying Machines Sealers, Slicers, Mincers and Grinders Bottling and Filling Machinery Bandsaws Conveyors and Complete Lines Formers Refrigeration Handling Equipment Injectors Weighing Systems Fabrication Equipment And much more
Leasing, Hire Purchase and Asset Refinance options available.
Get your equipment finance all wrapped up
Finance is subject to status. Terms and Conditions Apply. Propel acts as a lender or a credit broker for business customers only.
01633 982922
Propel Finance Group includes Propel Finance PLC and Propel Finance No.1 Limited. Propel Finance Plc is registered in Wales, Company no 04015132 Propel Finance No. 1 Limited is registered in Wales, Company no. 10003271. Registered offices are at Unit 5, Langstone Business Village, Langstone Park, Newport, NP18 2LH, vat no. 252089996. Propel Finance Plc and Propel Finance No. 1 Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
contact@propelfinance.co.uk www.propelfinance.co.uk
The Right Mix Developing a liquid mixing process
development and design of hygienic
logs, dye penetrant, pressure testing,
requires specialist expertise, whether
mixing vessels and processing skids,
ferroxyl testing, TSE certification and
manual or automatic in operation.
from a simple blending skid up to a full-
Approvals.
Factors such as solids suspension,
scale automatic PLC controlled mixing
distribution and shear sensitivity
system. In-house operations include
determine the type of agitation,
welding, fabrication, mechanical and
Engineering company, Axium Process
blending, or mixing required. Positioning
electro-polishing, with quality control
specialises in hygienic process systems
of the mixer, access, temperature
at all stages in compliance with EHEDG
and precision fabrications, offering
control and CIP requirements must
and ASME BPE guidelines.
a complete engineering service
be considered, along with risk assessments at the design stage to ensure compliance with directives such as PED or ATEX, and appropriate CE
that encompasses Stainless Steel, Operating in industries where
Hastelloy, and Aluminium alloys. The
qualification, traceability and full
company’s reputation for delivering
documentation is paramount, Axium
markings or Notified Body approvals.
provides full traceability dossiers which
Axium Process specialises in all aspects
borescope direct view and video record,
of liquid processing, including the
welder qualifications, weld maps,
12 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
As a leading UK based Hygienic
can include materials certification,
innovative solutions has been built on, responsiveness, reliability, and engineering excellence. https://axiumprocess.com/
Automation security enhanced with PROFINET’s additional protection measures Security is a topic that must be continuously adapted, particularly with respect to ever increasing networking of production plants. The use of components with added value, e.g., web or OPC communication increases direct communication with higher-level systems outside of the security zone. It is also becoming increasingly difficult to separate networks. Networks are becoming larger, meaning that more and more components are connected together and interact with one another. A successful attack on a single (PC) system within such a cell therefore bypasses upfront security measures. Widely distributed plants also hinder the physical protection of networks and access points, meaning unauthorized persons could possibly gain access to the network. Concepts which rely primarily on isolating the production plants must be supplemented with new concepts that enable protection within the cell.
FORWARD THINKING …
with further safeguarding within the plant enabled by dividing into zones through the use of firewalls. Furthermore, a security component test ensures the ability of PROFINET components to withstand overloading, a concept supported by organizational measures in the production plant within the framework of a security management system.
From the very beginning PROFINET featured an extensive security concept to protect plant networks and automation components. More importantly the protective mechanisms and concepts did not interfere with the running of production operations, were easy to implement and remained affordable. They were also able to be adapted to suit ever changing developments.
PROFINET also includes a credential management system, e.g., for authentication of the devices and optional end-to-end security expansion for communication. As not every application has the same security requirements three security classes are now defined for PROFINET.
PROFINET’s IT security concept employs a defence-in-depth approach. With this method, the production plant is protected against attacks – particularly from the outside – by means of a multi-layer perimeter
More Information https://www.profibus.com/technology/industrie-40/. Click here to view PROFINET Security video
ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR END-TO-END SECURITY
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 13
Compact packaging line from GEA expands capacity for Irish brewery For Carlow Brewing Company, GEA
O’Hara’s craft beer brand range, Falling
Company. “We only wanted to take this
VIPOLL will install Ireland’s first
Apple cider plus a range of canned and
step with an experienced partner. So,
Visitron ALL-IN-ONE line. Looking for
bottled private labels for international
in addition to the technology, the track
a multifunctional filling system, the
customers. To meet growing customer
record of similar installations and an
craft brewer chose GEA’s combined
demand and interest in canned beer,
established local support network were
rinser-filler-seamer block, which offers
Carlow Brewing decided to invest in
very important to us.” Having already
brewers maximum production flexibility
a fundamentally new facility. Canning
installed a GEA beer separator in the
and reliability. The ALL-IN-ONE rinses,
is a first for the brewery. However, no
past, the brewery was familiar with
fills, seals and seams cans, glass
Irish contract packer could provide the
the technology group’s expertise in the
and even PET bottles with just one
required capacity.
market; and, during the BrauBeviale exhibition in Nuremberg in 2019,
machine in the smallest possible space.
TAKING LEAN BOTTLING SOLUTION IN OWN HANDS
became aware of the GEA Visitron Filler
bottle and can formats without tools in just 20 to 30 minutes.
“Taking canning into our own hands is a
with competing technologies. “We
big step for us”, recalls Seamus O’Hara,
reviewed the available technologies
founder and CEO of Carlow Brewing
intensively. The design, construction
Manufacturers can switch between
The family-owned brewery produces the
14 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
ALL-IN-ONE which won the comparison
quality and reference list of the ALL-INONE clearly led us to GEA.” With a capacity of 6,000 containers per hour, the ALL-IN-ONE will enable the brewery to produce a wider range of products on one highly flexible line, which will ensure beer quality, reduce beer loss, and lower water and power consumption. “We plan to use the ALLIN-ONE to add nitrogen widgets to cans in the future”, reveals O’Hara. These nitrogen widgets activate when the can is opened, creating the coveted creamy foam. Carlow Brewing would be the first Irish craft brewer to use such a widget. “Not only is this the first GEA VIPOLL ALL-IN-ONE line to be sold in Ireland or the UK,” commented Paul Waugh, Managing Director, GEA VIPOLL, Slovenia. “It demonstrates, once again, that no other company can provide a multipurpose filling line to match the level of design innovation on the Visitron ALL-IN-ONE. We’re delighted to extend our collaboration with the Carlow Brewing Company and wish them every success with their new plant.” Commissioning at the brewery will take place during early 2021. www.gea.com
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 15
Fat content in minced meat Quality control is crucial in the food
Measured value by Seilab
Measured value by FX17
Sample 1
0.6%
0.9%
Sample 2
16%
15.2%
Sample 3 *
10%
10.4%
of the properties that consumers look at
Sample 4 *
18%
20.8%
first when buying meat. Its quantitative
Sample 5
75%
75.1%
level needs to be precisely documented.
Sample 6 (mix)
3%
2.7%
Also, monitoring the fat content while
Sample 7 (mix)
6%
5.5%
transforming meat plays a cost-effective
Sample 8 (mix)
11%
12.8%
role. New automation technologies
Sample 9 (mix)
19%
19.0%
are therefore needed to improve brand
Sample 10 (mix)
24%
23.5%
industry. By monitoring the nutritive property of the product, it contributes not only in protecting a brand reputation, but also in increasing it. Fat content is one
competitiveness. In this study, 5 minced meat samples were generously provided by Atria (Kauhajoki, Finland). 5 extra samples were obtained by mixing the 5 original ones, so that 10 samples are included in this analysis. In order to know
Table 1: fat content on each sample included in this study. Samples 3 and 4 were used for validation purpose. Conclusions: The use of FX17 in machine vision systems would provide meat
accurately their fat content, SPECIM
transformers with crucial and accurate
ordered measurements from a 3rd
information for fat quantification. Besides,
party laboratory, certified in fat analysis,
this fast and non-destructive method is
using a butyrometer according to Gerber
also suitable to detect other properties
method (Seilab in Seinäjoki, Finland;
such as moisture and freshness. Also,
method NMKL 181, 2005; See Table 1).
contaminants such as pieces of wood and
Samples were measured with SPECIM hyperspectral camera FX17 (Fig.1). Hyperspectral imaging a surface and non-destructive method which combines spectroscopy and imaging. For each pixel of the acquired image, NIR spectra are collected (900 – 1700 nm). Those can be converted into fat content employing relevant processing algorithms. Here a regression model was built and calibrated on 8 samples, and applied on the 2 remaining ones (indicated with * in Table 1). Data were processed with Mira
plastics can be sorted. FX17 is a perfect
Figure 2: regression plot of the quantitative model for fat content prediction. Red dots relate to calibration samples, whereas green ones relate to validation samples.
tool for industrial quality control. Besides, the flexibility of the methods allows a fast adaptation to new regulations. Hyperspectral imaging offers cost reduction and quick adaptation to new regulations by offering real-time information about the manufacturing process for decision making and real-time control of meat processing factory input and output being within specification. www.quantum-controls.co.uk
Figure 3: Example of fat distribution on a meat sample (here Sample 4).
software (perClass): The results of the regression model are presented in Table 1 and Fig.2. It clearly shows that the FX17 is a suitable tool to measure precisely the fat content in minced meat. In addition of measuring the fat content in samples, hyperspectral imaging is suitable to measure its distribution
Figure 1: FX17 on the 40x20 scanner (left) and example of a sample on the scanner sample
(Fig.3).
tray (right).
16 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Specim Hyperspectral Cameras for the Food Industry Applications Include: ■ Meat, fish and poultry ■ Dried food – nuts and cereals ■ Fruits berries and vegetables ■ Food packaging – heat seal inspection ■ Seed and grain
FX Series:
Small, fast & affordable FEATURES: ■ ■ ■
■
Spectral range of 900-1700 nm High spatial resolution of 640 pixels High image speed: - 527 FPS (full range) for GigE version - 670 FPS (full range) for CameraLink version Free wavelength selection from 224 bands within the camera coverage
Specim IQ:
Portable Hyperspectral Imaging Camera FEATURES: ■ ■ ■
NIR 400-1000 nm 5 Mpix (CMOS) Full portability with appx. 100 measurements per SD card and battery
SPECIM DISTRIBUTOR IN THE UK AND IRELAND:
Quantum Design UK and Ireland Ltd 1 Mole Business Park, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7BA Tel: +44 (0)1372 378822 | Email: info@qd-uki.co.uk
For more information visit
qd-uki.co.uk/imaging-cameras
NEW FOR 2021
®
Stage 1. Manufacture
Stage 2. Sale
Introduce an additive to the plastic to make Biojet®
Packaging on the shelf
Stage 3. End of life Microbes like Biojet® and start breaking down the packaging
Biojet® packaging has been created to deliver biodegradable transparent tubes, boxes and clampacks. As people seek better environmental packaging solutions, Bell Packaging is delighted to announce the introduction of this exciting new product which means we can now offer a complete environmental range for new packaging projects in 2021.
VIRGIN – REUSABLE – RECYCLABLE – RECYCLED – BIODEGRADABLE Traditionally biodegradable / compostable products are very expensive. In some cases the cost has been two or three times more than virgin products which often makes the packaging cost prohibitive and is therefore not widely used. There has also been concerns expressed about the viability of biodegradable products questioning what remains after the degradable process has been completed. ®
Biojet answers both of these challenges. It is a much lower cost solution and has many exciting environmental credentials. Traditionally plastic products use crude oil to create polymer which is then converted into plastic which we use to make PET boxes, tubes and clampacks. Our challenge has been to make these designs biodegradable but not affect the performance of the packaging whilst it is in use. ®
To make Biojet we introduce an additive which attracts microbes that uses plastic as their source of food and energy. These microbes can be found in landfill, the ocean floor, rivers and swamps where bacteria and microbes thrive. When the microbes meet the plastic, the biodegradation process is accelerated as the plastic is consumed. This process
www.bellpackaging.com
Stage 4. Biodegradation Microbes break down Biojet® in a much shorter period of time
Stage 5. Gone Microbes consume the whole pack and leave organic matter CO2 & CH4
will only happen in the correct environment where microbes exist. What used to take thousands of years to break down plastic now takes much less time as the microbes consume the entire product. After the process has been completed, the microbes leave behind the same bi-products as decaying organic matter – humus (soil), CO2 and CH4 both of which can be captured to produce clean energy. ® Biojet packaging is 100% recyclable through the normal PET recycling centres.
This additive has been independently tested and complies with the Intertek Greenleaf Biodegradability Standard. ® The additive used in Biojet is 100% organic and is comprised of non toxic raw materials which are independently approved for direct contact with food. The additive also complies with other domestic and international requirements for the absence of toxic or other potentially harmful substances.
The additive is FDA Title 21 Part 177 compliant for food contact and fully compliant with EU REACH Regulation No 1907/2006. ® Testing to date shows that Biojet packaging made with this additive performs in the same way as standard recycled plastic. The shelf life, appearance, clarity and strength of the packaging all remain constant with the same characteristics as packaging made using virgin or recycled polymers. ®
Biojet has a patent pending and is only available to Bell Packaging clients.
www.faceguards.co.uk
+44 (0) 1582 459292
Biojet®
Designed to keep our oceans cleaner
®
NEW FOR 2021
Biojet® packaging has been created to deliver biodegradable plastic tubes, boxes and clampacks.
Traditionally biodegradable / compostable products are very expensive. In some cases the cost has been two, three or even four times more than virgin products and therefore not widely used….Biojet® is a much lower cost solution that has many exciting environmental benefits.
Biojet®
Designed to keep our oceans cleaner
DESIGNED & MANUFACTURED
IN GREAT BRITAIN
www.bellpackaging.com
www.faceguards.co.uk
+44 (0) 1582 459292
Envirogen Group launches new e-commerce offering with launch of Envi Purified Water for Sale Water treatment and process filtration
Customers can choose from three
experts Envirogen Group introduces
options, Envi Deionised, Envi
the launch of their new e-commerce
Demineralised and Envi Ultra-Pure
offering, Envi Purified Water.
Water in a range of sizes. Envi Purified Water products are manufactured
Envi Purified Water is Envirogen’s own-
to ISO 9001 quality standards with
brand water range which comprises of
independent water analysis from UKAS
bottled pre-formulated, purified water
the national accreditation body for the
that is a convenient solution for many
United Kingdom which is recognised
manufacturing, industrial and medical
by government to assess against
needs. The range is designed to meet
internationally agreed standards.
exact industrial, food and beverage and laboratory-grade specifications. Speaking on behalf of Envirogen Group,
Shipping to business addresses in the Bill Denyer
UK only, customers are able to order by mid-day for next working day dispatch
European CEO Bill Denyer said, “at
solutions. So, we listened to their needs
Envirogen, we like to think of ourselves
and quite quickly diversified operations
as a solution’s based organisation.
to include a B2C offering as we were
For more information on and support
It became apparent that there was a
keen to be inclusive and offer this to
on how you can purchase purified
growing need and hunger from our
not just our existing customer base but
water online please visit:
customers for laboratory grade water
whomever requires it.”
www.envirogengroup.com/watersales
20 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
and fast delivery.
Improving safety and security in retail distribution with digital access control Graham Swallow of Axis Communications
This is where considerations turn
looks at how technology can better monitor
to technology. Security systems,
and protect retail distribution centres by
comprising essential access control
improving access control at the perimeter
measures, will play an important
and on site.
part and offer many benefits. They
Today’s retail and manufacturer distribution centres are often large, busy environments with many operatives carrying out a variety of tasks with quick turnaround times to meet customer demand. The safety of staff is paramount, and at the same time, security is also an increasing concern. Criminals are becoming ever more determined to attack freight, premises and IT networks, requiring an increasingly sophisticated approach to security.
22 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
will ensure not only high levels of protection, but also monitor operations to safeguard the working environment. No longer simply about manned stations or the use of dated legacy technologies, today’s modern solutions utilise digital connectivity and the internet of things (IoT) so that the integration of access control, surveillance cameras, audio speakers and modern, affordable radar systems form part of a comprehensive, overarching solution.
MONITORING FOR SAFETY AND IMPROVING OPERATIONS Working in an environment where there are fast moving goods brings about a need for strong, safe and efficient working practices. Here technology can facilitate real time alerts and interventions designed to change behaviour and capture data to manage rules and policies. Whether picking and preparing orders for store delivery, loading or unloading goods, a network video system with analytics can provide greater visibility of staff movements to ensure they are in the right place at the right time and doing the right thing.
Automating barriers with number plate
can become part of your compliance
recognition capabilities at the site
process.
entrance gates, enabled by network
An intelligent video management
cameras and integrated with an access
system, unified with access control,
database, can provide a fast lane entry for
also has benefits of removing the
an organisation’s own fleet or frequent
human error factor that can so often
visitors. This can be linked with visitor
compromise a business’s efforts to
management to enable health and
maintain high levels of security. As an
safety briefings before arrival and to log acceptance. Adding modern radar to this area will monitor where pedestrians stray into vehicle lanes, identifying the human or vehicle difference and issuing an audio and visual warning. This all-encompassing solution serves to streamline operations while delivering a consistent output, removing cost and unnecessary risk to human presence within potentially dangerous areas. Better insights for operations and management teams can result in better situational awareness and dramatically improve due diligence to reduce health and safety risks in such fast-paced environments.
IMPROVING SECURITY AT THE PERIMETER In addition to staff safety and smoother operation, the protection of goods, machinery and people is critical within any retail distribution environment. Considerations start at the perimeter of a site where the introduction of radar technology can provide security personnel with accurate information about the number of people or vehicles in an area and can also calculate speed of approach and keep a record of where they have been on site. Due attention can also be given to those who might be approaching the perimeter from the
example, a fire door which has been inside too; for example, a staff member
propped open will trigger an alert from
attempting to pass goods from the
IP audio speakers, reminding staff that
building over the fence.
the door is for emergency use only.
If the perimeter is breached, it’s important for security and operations teams to very quickly track the movements of anyone who has unlawfully entered the site, to be able to guarantee that goods have not been moved or tampered with. Access control mechanisms, together with video surveillance can help to track movement
This closes off a possible entrance for a potential criminal. Of course, better security and improved access control is not about technology in isolation, but having the right tools alongside the right attitudes of staff and management, so that the system becomes part of a combined effort to secure and protect people, premises and property.
around a building, with IP audio speakers
Many retailers are now even setting up
also configured to issue alerts and
their own monitoring centre to process
pre-recorded messaging to deter
security situations and emergencies
criminal activity or correct unacceptable
and with the right information they
behaviour.
can take the safest necessary actions.
INTELLIGENT ACCESS FOR A SMARTER, SAFER WORLD IP based access control technologies allow an accurate record to be kept of who is entering and leaving the site. The addition of frictionless technologies removes the need to touch shared surfaces by introducing QR codes on a mobile device or facial recognition,
Working in close collaboration with the trusted providers of high quality security solutions, such as Axis Communications, retail distribution businesses can take full control of their security provision, maximising the benefits of smarter access control in combination with other technologies to more effectively secure and protect.
rather than the use of keypads. This is of
Learn more about Axis’ solutions for
particular relevance during the COVID-19
the retail industry:
pandemic and adding a face mask
https://www.axis.com/solutions/
detection analytic to the camera edge
solutions-industry/retail
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 23
Helping businesses prepare for Natasha’s Law Dynamic, accurate labelling that clearly
that are smudge, water and fade resistant.
in its own Tolarus NutriLabel software
communicates allergens will be a legal
The pigment ink’s long-lasting, durable
that excels in the management of full
requirement from October 2021.
qualities make it perfect for a wide variety
colour digital print. Fully compatible with
of environments.
Epson’s range of ColourWorks printers, it
Natasha’s Law is being introduced to protect allergy sufferers and give them
There is also the ColorWorks CW-C6000
confidence in the food they buy. It follows
that supports media widths, from 25.4mm
the tragic death of teenager Natasha
to 112mm and boasts a wide range of
Ednan-Laperouse, who suffered an allergic
media including textured paper. It can
reaction to a Pret a Manger baguette
print anything from tiny labels for vaping
bought at Heathrow airport.
liquid bottles, to large durable labels that
Currently food prepared on the premises in which it is sold does not have to display allergen information. Natasha’s Law will require pre-packed food, whether for sale on-site or off-site, to be individually labelled with ingredients highlighting all allergens. Labels will need to include a full list of ingredients and highlight allergens in the ingredients list. They can be identified by any suitable method including Bold, Italic, UPPERCASE and Colour. Epson’s ColorWorks Series of inkjet printers offers a complete onsite labelling solution that supports businesses as they prepare for the new legislation. It includes the ColorWorks C3500 that can easily customise and print small to medium volumes of colour labels. It features individual pigment ink cartridges that support fast-drying, highly detailed labels
24 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
are suitable for chemical drums. It offers high-quality, high-resolution, four-colour print output as standard; along with colour matching functionality (ICC profile and spot colour matching tool) for impactful, on-demand colour labels. The series has been designed to be extremely user friendly. All operations can be carried out from the front, which saves on space. The roll replacement is possible from the front, right and left. There are also a number of technical tools to help with printer management, configuration and maintenance.
is a proven tailored solution to meet the requirements of Natasha’s Law. As either a standalone system or linking with external software platforms like the established Saffron Food Management System, Tolarus NutriLabel has inbuilt capabilities of automated allergen read and display control features. Wessex Labels is also currently working with a number of potential partners in offering a cloudbased version of the Tolarus Nutrilabel system which should assist in helping its client manage over 1000 of their own individual customer sites in 2021. Martin Clark, Wessex Labels Director, comments: “The public will be analysing food labelling with ever more intensity as we go further into next year so quality of labelling and packaging will become increasingly of the upmost importance. In-house digital print capabilities for food
Ease of use, content flexibility and high
producers offers a way to deliver these
quality are supported by software that
high levels of quality that until recently
ensures the right information is reliably
was maybe unachievable.”
reproduced. Wessex Labels Ltd has invested heavily
For further information please visit www.epson.com
HALL EFFECT MAGNETIC THICKNESS GAUGE • • •
MTG-99
Tel: +44 (0)1432 267671 sales@bw-nde.com bw-nde.com
•
Non-destructive (NDT) measurement technology. 0.00254 - 2.5 cms thickness range. Minimum thickness capture with vibrate on alarm Datalogger with interface to Microsoft ExcelTM
Typical inspection targets • Plastic bottles including multi-layer & containers • Tubing and Cans - titanium and aluminium materials • Composite structures • Preforms • Microwave trays • Glass containers • Ceramics
Anyone for EXTRA Cake? After a series of bearing failures
cause of the repeated bearing failures and
contaminants, the bearings were covered
and repeated downtime, a leading
to identify areas for improvement.
in icing and flour, suggesting that they
manufacturer of baked goods contacted Acorn Industrial Services to request a site visit. Following a preliminary meeting, ACORN undertook a process line mapping exercise to assess where improvements could be made to increase the uptime of
The area of most concern was their fondant machines. The machines were fitted with deep groove ball bearings equipped with 2RS seals. Although these machines were free from external
were becoming heavily contaminated. Meanwhile, frequent washdowns were causing the bearings to corrode. It quickly became apparent that none of the bearings in the plant were stainless steel. Stainless steel is typically the
the plant and reduce bearing failure.
chosen material for a food production
The plant’s site manager believed
corrosion resistance.
that many bearings on the line were repeatedly failing as a result of contamination. The average lifespan of these bearings was just 10 weeks, with downtime and maintenance man-hours stacking up.
environment thanks to its high levels of
The situation was similar in the other areas of the production line, with bearings suffering from high levels of contamination without adequate protection, as well as being subject to corrosion. Without intervention, it’s likely that these bearings
ACORN’s Bearing and Maintenance
would continue to fail again and again,
Product Manager, Andrew Fletcher,
causing unnecessary downtime and loss of
visited the site to investigate the
production for the plant.
26 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
After a full assessment of the process line,
the reduction in downtime and loss of
Andy put together a report documenting
production would more than negate the
the issues with the current setup, along
cost of upgrading the bearings.
with suggested improvements to increase
The ACORN: EXTRA service prioritises Total
uptime on the production line.
Cost of Ownership, working hand-in-hand
The first improvement that Andy was able
with businesses to solve their application
to suggest was to upgrade the bearings to
challenges. This unique service is available
stainless steel. This would help to reduce
to all businesses across every industry,
failures caused by corrosion, extending the
from food and beverage to processing and
lifespan of the bearings by up to 75%.
packaging. Businesses are able to gain
The sealing on the bearings could also
rings to the bearings. These rings would
be improved to guard against water and
help to deflect the initial washdown and
particle contamination. For this, Andy
the majority of particle contaminants,
suggested several solutions and the
with the DDU seal acting as a second-line
possible outcomes for each. Presented
defence.
with this data, the customer was able to clearly see the benefits of changing to an improved solution, eventually choosing NSK’s deep groove ball bearings, fitted with a DDU sealing solution. Upgrading to these contact sealed bearings could increase the bearing lifespan by up to 50%.
Andy estimated that making the suggested changes had the potential to increase the bearings’ service life by over 300%, extending the lifespan
insider access to some of the industry’s leading experts. These experts will work to understand the unique challenges of the business, and then work closely with site staff to identify the right solutions. From production line mapping and application reviews to failure analysis and product training, the ACORN: EXTRA service will appeal to every business.
from just 10 weeks to up to 34 weeks.
For more information, contact Andy
By providing a detailed report to the
Fletcher, Bearing & Maintenance Product
customer, Andy was able to demonstrate
Manager, Acorn Industrial Services Ltd.
The life expectancy of the bearings could
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). The savings
enquiries@acorn-ind.co.uk.
be further increased by opting to add Nilos
in maintenance and repair, along with
Visit: www.acorn-ind.co.uk/nsk
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 27
Pandemic continues to impact on pallet and packaging prices Further price increases in the wooden pallet and packaging industry are ‘inevitable’, according to the European Federation of Wooden Pallet & Packaging Manufacturers (FEFPEB), as the impact of the pandemic continues to be felt by companies across Europe and the rest of the world. The organisation stated that it expects sustained rises in the price of raw materials – including timber and steel – and availability issues in certain markets, to create upwards pressure on prices for several months.
said the increased administrative
Independent indices from member states
burden, delays and costs associated
showed extraordinarily high price rises
with the UK’s departure from the EU on
during quarter 4 of 2020, as collated in
December 31, are causing further impact
FEFPEB’s quarterly Pallet Timber Price
for businesses. There was also a Brexit-
Index. This trend has continued – and
related surge in demand for ISPM15-
in some markets, accelerated – across
compliant pallets and packaging,
Europe into 2021. Some shortages have
which was most intense in the weeks
been reported.
increases on the wood market. As wood
The pallet and packaging sector in most
costs account for more than 70 per cent
of FEFPEB’s member countries showed a
of the price of a wooden pallet then
decrease in trade across 2020. However,
pallet price increases are unavoidable.
as the construction trade and other businesses have recovered, volumes
“In the end – according to market rules
have begun to increase again, creating
– the raw material is sold to those
pressure on pallet timber.
paying the most, which currently is
Other international factors, including the diversion of Scandinavian and German timber to satisfy demand in the US and Chinese markets, and issues such as a drop in Irish timber production, have also impacted on the situation. In the US, pallet and packaging timber has reportedly doubled in price in recent months. FEFPEB secretary general Fons Ceelaert said: “On the one hand producers of wooden pallets and packaging need to satisfy their customers’ demands
immediately before the deadline. This was reportedly still high during February, suggesting a lack of preparation on the part of some customers. “Ongoing international pressures on many categories of raw material make further price rises in sectors including wooden pallets and packaging inevitable.
the US timber market as Bloomberg
The situation is complex and, with
lumber futures climbed to a record
supply chains around the world affected,
high (February 18). So wooden pallets
we expect this to continue for several
and packaging producers are facing
months,” said Ceelaert.
increasingly non-profitable production, wood shortages and serious economic decisions about slowing or even shutting
“We advise manufacturers and repairers to maintain an ongoing dialogue with
down production.”
their customers to ensure they are well-
Meanwhile, a sustained and severe
together with our member associations,
imbalance in the international freight
is continuing to observe the situation
industry has disrupted usual trade flows
and will issue further updates when
globally, caused a shortage of capacity,
needed.”
and pushed shipping prices up.
informed about this situation. FEFPEB,
More information, including the FEFPEB
and growing volumes, but on the other
FEFPEB, which highlighted the
pallet price indices, can be found at
they are experiencing enormous price
developing situation in autumn 2020,
www.fefpeb.eu
28 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Forerunner Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. The Sensor People have been setting technological standards in industrial automation for more than 50 years. In the field of safety at work, we convince right from the start with trend-setting inventions, such as the development of the first protective sensor ever, to our latest safety innovation, “Smart Process Gating” – the space-saving solution for access guarding on conveyor lines. This is how we ensure the success of our customers in an industry that is ever evolving.
www.leuze.co.uk
Fluid Carrying
Flexibility Articulated Torsion Pipework In Hoses Rotating Cylinders
Swivel Joints Swivel joints allow pipework to pressure 1/4” to 40” and beyond. Vacuum to over 20,000psi. Stock and bespoke production. Unique bearing/seal design for longer life. ISO 9001 CE marked where applicable.
Tel: +44(0)1663
Bingswood Trading Estate Whaley Bridge | High Peak | SK23 7LY | UK
E-mail:
735003
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 29
Custom moulding facility saves mould maintenance costs and reduces its scrap rate using Lusin® MC1718 mould cleaner to remove build-up issues Chem-Trend, a global leader in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of high-performance release agents, purging compounds, and mould maintenance products, is proud to propose a mould cleaner solution that combines excellent cleaning performance, simplicity of use and improved part quality. During processing a fraction of polymer, additives as well as pigments slowly deposit on mould cavities. With time, it forms build up that incrementally affect the parts surface quality generating rejects. Building up of residues is a very slow and steady effect. Just a few defect parts could potentially affect a complete batch. Either this batch is supplied to customers and may weaken supplier’s rating if defects are detected or the batch needs to be sorted to remove parts with visual defects, which increases production cost. Some polymers, additives and pigments are more likely to deposit during long production cycles. Polyamide, PVC,
To avoid part rejection, regular
allowed. The surface texture of this large
Acetals as well as many others do
maintenance cycles should be
mould was very sensitive. The cleaning
accumulate. Polyolefins leave wax as well
implemented. Maintenance cycle length
method was restricted to cleaning
as entrapped pigments on cavity surfaces.
vary a lot pending on the mould’s
of the cavities in the tool room. Each
complexity.
refurbishment cost was estimated to 3
The effects of build up are multiple and
k€ and two days of work. Due to heavy
some are difficult to track:
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
depositing on the mould, a refurbishment
• Knit lines, voids, blemishes are simple
A custom moulder, producing a 1.6 kg part
was necessary every two weeks.
to check. It could be done directly on the
from flame-retarded PC+ABS was facing
machine.
critical part aspect issues (see picture 1).
In the middle of the production run,
• Partially clogged venting (e.g. vented
The long cycle time of 55 seconds also
at the end of the semi-manual cycle,
pins) could be a bit more difficult to
added to the importance of producing
an initial trial was made by spraying
detect when it affects cavity filling for
perfect visual parts. Important care was
Lusin® MC1718 directly on the moving
example.
given to the handling of the mould, a
part of the mould (visual half). After
• Textured surfaces (e.g. matt dashboard
simple touch with hands could potentially
approximately 30 seconds of reaction
part) affected by incremental surface
lead to extensive polishing of the tool. No
time, the machine started in semi-
gloss are not easy to spot.
abrasive nor manual cleaning method was
automatic mode again.
30 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
The next five injected parts pulled all build up from the cavity (see picture 2). These scrap parts had an extra layer of removed additives on their surface. This method allows the usage of a cleaner without touching the cavity surface. This was a very important point for the production manager and general manager who already spent a lot of money for repairing damages or scratched tools. Product performance has been evaluated over a longer period of time with a maintenance cleaning every shift. During production, a preventative maintenance scheme was made using just a small amount of Lusin® MC1718 to cover both sides of the cavity.
Before cleaning
After approximately thirty seconds reaction time the machine was started again and the first two parts were discarded. With this method tooling refurbishment cycle increased from two to six weeks.
CONCLUSION Using Lusin® MC1718 preventatively to remove build up in the mould allows injection moulders to extend the time between two cycles of tooling refurbishment. Regular use of it ensures that cavities remain in good condition. The use of Lusin® MC1718 eliminates potential damage to the mould, clogging of vents, and build up in difficult to reach areas of the mould.
During cleaning
ChemTrend.com
Perfect part after regular use of mould cleaner
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 31
Pentair appoint Moody Direct Ltd as the First UK Authorised Distributor of Pentair’s Südmo Valve Range from Hamilton New Zealand Following discussions with leading supplier to the UK process industries, Moody Direct, Pentair are delighted to announce that an authorised distributor agreement has been signed. Moody Direct provide their customers with a one-stop-shop for all their process requirements and have been doing so for more than 45 years. This agreement allows Moody Direct to officially supply Pentair’s Südmo valve range from Hamilton NZ, including hygienic components and spare parts. Jamie Lambert UK Sales Manager Food & Beverage Process Solutions said; “With a proven reputation within the UK hygienic sector, we are delighted to announce this partnership with Moody Direct. This partnership consolidates the longstanding Pentair-Moody relationship, and bolsters our position as market leaders & innovators in the food & beverage processing, brewing & pharmaceutical industries” Whilst Ken Wild, Director of Moody Direct commented; “Pentair share many of the same principles we look for from all the original equipment manufacturers we supply. This strategic alliance is pivotal in enabling us to scale our UK stock of Pentair’s leading technology and upsurge the support we can offer to both our current, and future Pentair customers.” For more information regarding Moody Direct and Pentair offering in the UK, visit www.moodydirect.com/pentair-processvalves You can also discuss your individual requirements with their knowledgeable sales team by calling 01777 701141 or emailing info@moodydirect.com.
32 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Ultra Purge™ purge compounds help you keep a clear view on solving colour changes in thin wall packaging.
PURGING COMPOUND + MOULD MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS + RELEASE AGENTS
Highly complex moulds with many cavities, extremely low part weight, high volume production and the necessity of multiple sometimes radical colour changes leading to high scrap rates, long colour changeover times and high process complexity? Does that sound familiar to you?
efficient with the right purge solution. Visit our website and read more about how we were able to support a global player in thin wall medical caps production. CASE STUDY
We are here to help you keep a clear view on how to address those challenges and make things easier, faster, and more
CHEMTREND.COM
Diagnostic tools that will revolutionize industrial network maintenance Preventing unplanned stoppages and
something not all technicians can readily
and/or PROFIBUS, you’ll discover that
simplifying troubleshooting is high on
do.
Atlas2 gives you a much more connected
the agenda for anyone maintaining an industrial network. Procentec, the global leader in diagnostic and monitoring solutions for the Industrial Automation Market, has sparked a widespread interest in the industry with the release of multiple new tools. These cost-saving products are designed for anyone working with PROFIBUS, PROFINET EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT and Industrial Ethernet.
SNAP ANALYSIS; ANALYSING A NETWORK WITHIN 2 MINUTES USING AI The star of the show is undoubtedly SNAP Analysis. This unique, selflearning feature analyses the live data of a PROFIBUS network. It then gives
SNAP also uses a predictive algorithm to recognize and learn from data
and predictive approach to machine health monitoring and maintenance.
as add-on within Osiris; Procentec’s
OSIRIS ENTERPRISE; AN INTUITIVE HELICOPTER VIEW OF THE ENTIRE NETWORK
powerful diagnostics platform that helps
Included in the long line-up of releases
you identify and resolve network issues.
is also Osiris Enterprise. This new
patterns, enabling it to predict common network faults. This tool is available
external platform fuses the data of
ATLAS2; 24/7, MULTI-PROTOCOL MONITORING SOLUTION
multiple permanent monitoring Atlas
Atlas2 is designed for the permanent
allowing technicians to monitor for the
monitoring of industrial networks with
first time their entire Industrial Ethernet
single or mixed architecture. This second-
network from anywhere in the world.
generation diagnostic tool, which is based on the popular Atlas unit, takes fault detection and diagnosis to a much higher level.
units into one convenient overview,
An overview of all the releases, product demo’s and more information can be found on www.procentec.com. For questions, advice or quotations,
an instant written diagnosis of a fault’s
Atlas2 is four times faster than its
please contact Jonathan Machin, Global
most likely cause, removing the need
predecessor, accelerating troubleshooting
Sales Manager at Procentec: jmachin@
to manually interpret complicated
routines considerably. Whether you’re
procentec.com | +44 (0)7534307696
oscilloscope images and messages,
using PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT
34 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Monitor your Industrial networks 24/7 and reduce costly downtime! How do you keep your plant running 24/7, maximize productivity and reduce network failure? Factories lose between 5% - 20% in productivity due to unplanned downtime, where just 1 minute of downtime can cost thousands of dollars. In addition, the current pandemic may limit access to your factory, making control, maintenance and troubleshooting a difficult job.
ComBricks
Atlas2
Procentec, the leading diagnostic solutions provider for industrial automation with over 20 years of experience, enables you to fully take control over your plant with innovative solutions for permanent monitoring.
→ Remote monitoring of your PROFIBUS installation accessible via web-browser.
→ Remote monitoring for PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT and PROFIBUS.
→ Customizable modular system for PA and fiber optic repeaters.
→ Dynamic graphical and hierachical displays of a network’s topology.
→ The only product with an integrated oscilloscope.
→ Scoring mechanism and traffic light alert system for simple insight → NEW: Self-learning machine with predictive fault-finding capabilities. → NEW: Optional LED display on the device itself for a quick overview.
Visit Visit procentec.com procentec.com for for more more information information and and our our newest newest automation automation solutions. solutions.
Your network partner.
Tel. Tel. Email Email
+44(0) +44(0) 753 753 4307 4307 696 696 jmachin@procentec.com jmachin@procentec.com
Moulding machine
Successful cooling solution for a UK beverage closure company At UPM Conveyors our team’s expertly designed conveyors and systems can be the perfect solution to manufacturing issues, resulting in a more efficient, cost effective process.
THE PROBLEM • Closure temperature above 45-degrees Celsius causing ovality as they enter downstream equipment. • High level of static present
Recently we worked with a UK based
• High reject rate
beverage closure company, creating a
• De-mould temperature above
solution that would now be beneficial to
90-degrees Celsius
other beverage closure businesses across
• High mould cavitation
the country.
• Fast cycle time
Discover the challenges we resolved and our implemented solutions below. Get in touch with us on 01753 548801 if you are currently experiencing similar problems and require our services.
36 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
This beverage closure company was experiencing ovality, a high level of static and a high reject rate among other problems in their current conveyancing system. Combined, these issues were
causing a loss of product and of course, a reduction in efficiency which ultimately costs money.
OUR SOLUTION • Closure temperature now ~30-degree Celsius to reduce the ovality and reject rate issue. • Bespoke conveyor design using the latest 3D CAD software • Stainless steel conveyor sides, mobile support frame & PET-G dust covers. • Low wear and FDA compliant modular link belt • Bespoke control system design • Static eliminator installed.
Our team created a bespoke conveyor design which we presented to the
Swan neck
company, manufactured, and then installed and tested on the premises, including a static eliminator and a bespoke control system.
SYSTEM DETAILS 3D CAD design The conveyor 3D model we created to present to the customer at the design stage. UPM Conveyor cooling system • Two high efficiency fans (1ph 240v 0.6 amp) providing 1200 m3/h of air flow. • Air/heat exchangers requiring 10 bar chilled water with 15mm diameter pipes. • Variable speed control to adjust fan speed. • Hinged quick access to the G4 grade pleated panel filter.
HMI screen
Bespoke control system • Designed and built at UPM. • Touch screen HMI • Operating mode no.1 variable speed
Manual temperature test
adjustment with continuous belt running. • Operating mode no.2 variable speed adjustment with timed belt stop / start.
Above left, Upper occo cooler assembly, Above right, Lower occo box assembly
• Continuous temperature monitoring of the cooling system with over temperature alarm • E-stop with Pilz safety relay • Logic to communicate with both up & down stream equipment. Static eliminator • Fraser Static Eliminator 3024L provides
Swan neck
medium range static neutralisation to meet the requirements of highperformance machinery. • 24v DC power supply provided from the UPM control panel. • Operating distance 100 – 500 mm • Shockless, resistively coupled tungsten emitters for unlimited life. Quick belt removal and installation
Discharge section and drive motor
hesitate to get in touch to discuss your
• Square to round s/steel chute designed
specific requirements.
& manufactured by UPM Conveyors. • High level sensor to prevent closure back-up with output signal to cycle stop.
down / maintenance. • Belt re-install within 5 minutes.
email sales@upm.co.uk.
• Over temperature thermostat
All of our equipment is manufactured
• SEW motor with optional drip tray.
and tested to UK standards. With full
• Location of static eliminator
in-house project management available, we design, install and commission
• Hinged door with safety interlock • Belt removal within 5 minutes for clean
You can reach us on 01753 548801 or
Contact us today.
conveyors to benefit a wide range of
If you require conveyor solutions for
businesses, and always deliver high
your beverage closure business, do not
quality solutions.
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 37
The innovative partner for consultation on and distribution of laser products RAMAN LASERS FOR FRUIT QUALITY CONTROL Raman spectroscopy is a new method to control the quality of fruits. It allows a non-destructive investigation of the freshness of fruits and to sort out those fruits that are no longer attractive to consumers. Another application is the non-destructive, rapid and accurate detection of pesticide residues on the surface of fruits. FLC offers a great variety of Raman Lasers for Raman spectroscopy in the visible and near infrared wavelength range.
LINE LASER MODULES FOR ALIGNMENT OF FRUITS Sorting and quality inspection of fruits is still a time-consuming task because of the low level of automation. Natural products exhibit a greater variance compared to manufactured products regarding quality and dimensions, which complicates their automated processing. By means of a red line laser like a laser from the ML2040-Series or the HAML-F in combination with a color CMOS camera and a specially trained Convolutional Neural Network it is possible to determine the orientation of fruits. The accuracy of the orientation prediction is approximately 5 degrees, which presents very promising results for the automation of fruit packing systems. www.frlaserco.com
38 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
T&D unveils new generation wireless data logging systems Japanese data-logging market leader T&D has unveiled its latest wireless system, combining improved safety and greater convenience. Designed to record and measure data such as temperature and humidity, the new generation RTR500B series includes data loggers and a range of base stations to ensure the safe, wireless collection of recorded data. The new system uses T&D’s proven short-range wireless communication for logger to base transmission, and the RTR-500B series is also compatible with HTTPS – an encrypted communication feature that ensures superior security. Furthermore, users can register devices and adjust settings not only from a PC, but also a smartphone or via the cloud for greater flexibility and convenience. The wireless communication range between base and remote units, if unobstructed and direct, is about 150 metres (500ft). However, repeaters can be easily added for an even greater range across a variety of environments. And when used in conjunction with RTR-500BC repeaters, the base unit will automatically select the best route for stable, wireless communication. By adding the base unit to the free cloudbased T&D WebStorage facility, recorded data can be automatically uploaded, managed and accessed anytime, anywhere. Automated data collection is carried out using a robust wireless communications protocol. The base units in the new series
the upcoming RTR500BM (April 2021),
The devices in the new RTR500B Series
comprise: RTR500BW, for transferring
for transferring data via 4G mobile
are compatible with the earlier RTR-500
data to the cloud or server via a
connectivity. This impressive new
series, but also have additional Bluetooth
wireless and wired LAN connection,
line-up of RTR-505 data loggers meets
function. This means mobile devices can
RTR500BC, for downloading data to
multifunctional measurement needs
be used for data logger and base station
a PC connected with a USB cable, and
including temperature, voltage, 4-20mA
registration, and to adjust settings.
also with repeater functionality, and
and pulse.
40 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
T&D’s RTR-500 series offers the RTR-574 for monitoring illuminance, UV Intensity,
About T&D Corporation:
temperature and humidity. The RTR-576 can even measure CO2 concentration and
The Japanese T&D Corporation was founded
the RTR-500DC as a wireless portable
1986 in Matsumoto. The company name derives
data collector can be used as line up with
from “try and develop” and emphasizes the
RTR-500B series continuously.
company’s ambition to create innovative products with a high degree of practical
Finally, recorded data can be effectively
usefulness. A milestone was the development of the first temperature data
managed and analysed using free T&D
logger in 1994. For the twenty-seven years since then, T&D has been at the
Graph - high performance software that
forefront of creating new data loggers to meet the current customer’s demand
can also be used in conjunction with the
for unlimited nonstop access to data. Production takes place in a high-tech
T&D WebStorage cloud service.
site in Matsumoto, Japan, and since 2003, T&D Corporation has been exporting its wireless data loggers worldwide. Presently, the company has over 80
Email: europe.office@tandd.de
distributors worldwide and head offices in both North America and Europe.
www.tandd.com
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 41
MasoSine Certa pumps offer significant advantages over alternative technologies in beverage handling Certa TM sets even higher pumping standards in food and beverage processing. Offering EHEDG (Type EL Class I) and 3A certification as standard, Certa is extremely easy to clean for minimal maintenance and downtime. This advanced pump technology not only delivers high suction capability to handle viscous products, it also offers significant advantages over alternative technologies with rotors that cut through the fluid. Certa’s sinusoidal rotor gently carries fluid through the pump to dramatically reduce shear while cutting power consumption by up to 50% with high viscosity fluids. Pumping fruit juice or syrups may sound straightforward but this is far from the case. Fruit juice generally arrives at beverage plants in two components – as sugars and syrups/concentrates. In the case of the cold concentrates particularly, there are issues of acidity and high viscosity, which in turn can make pumping slow and prone to noise caused by cavitation if the correct pump type is not specified. The unique MasoSine Certa pump
Additionally, the low shear action
offload times for wine were cut to 45
design is ideal for the transfer of juice
generated by the single shaft and
minutes – a process which previously
concentrates because they create
sinusoidal rotor, transports juice through
took an hour. For fruit juice the impact
powerful suction, reducing cavitation
the pump without damaging the product.
was even bigger and what previously took all day in cold weather, is now decanted in
while increasing flow rates. Broadland Wineries bring in wine by the
four hours. Importantly, there is no oxygen
tanker load, typically 24,000 litres at a
introduced to the wine or juices in the
time. The company’s previous positive
transfer.
displacement pumps were proving slow at transferring the wine from the tankers.
CertaTM pumps are fully CIP capable
In addition, the pumps were struggling
at flow rates up to 99,000 l/hr. CIP
with the concentrated, high viscosity fruit
procedures require minimal downtime
juices also delivered to Broadland to help
and also much reduced chemical and
make certain wines.
water use, while less wastewater requires disposal.
Efficiency was boosted by installing MasoSine process pumps and tanker
42 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
www.wmftg.com/en/
Energy Use Less Save More
wmftg.com/en/food-and-beverage/ 01326 370362
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Hilsonic ultrasonic cleaning tanks are built to customer specifications
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Manufactured in the UK
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Hilsonic is a specialist in the supply of ultrasonic cleaning equipment for the power7HO generation and ZZZ KLOVRQLF FR XN marine industries 46 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
Issue 16 PECM
15
GREEN MEANS GO. Find it. Get it. Go.
THE BIG GREEN BOOK
Whether you’re looking to replace a specific part, or gather the essential items to solve a design engineering challenge, it’s now even easier to get the critical components you need for the job. THE BIG GREEN BOOK is so comprehensive, it now contains a whopping 60,000 standard engineering components. Request the bumper, two-volume print version, or the USB edition, to suit your tastes. THE BIG GREEN BOOK: it’s all you need to move forward with confidence. Request your free copy today. More information at www.norelem.co.uk or Email info@norelem.co.uk
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Work safer with our innovative materials and meet increasingly demanding customer needs Metal & X-Ray Detectable Belts Safe food processing continuously deals with the issue of foreign bodies. Volta Belting’s materials are resistant to cuts and breakage. So food-grade metal & x-ray detectable belts can meet the high demands of quality assurance. This allows the production teams to be confident that their products will meet the strictest food safety requirements. No more dealing with: • Friable plastic that deposits untraceable fragments into food • Removal of broken plastic • Missing belt segments or cleats Start using Volta's hygienic and durable belting solutions with thermoplastic material.
UV-C Resistant Belts UV-C rays lamps are being used for sterilization in the food industry and overexposure can cause damage to plastic belts. Volta food grade belts have been tested rigorously for a simulated operating period of 5 years under irradiation of 0.1 mW*s/cm2 across the entire belt. There was no degradation of belt surface and no loss of flexibility, only a minor loss of color over time.
marketing@voltabelting.com |
www.voltabelting.com
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 47
Cmatic fittings, the perfect fit Since 1979 Cmatic is ranking among
temperatures are the key features of the
manual valves and quick exhaust to
the major manufacturers of pneumatic
AV fitting.
control the flow within pneumatic circuits.
MF & RF Lines, perfect solution for coffee
CX & OX Line, push-on and compression
and vending machines.
fittings
MF and RF lines are especially designed
These two ranges are the perfect answer
to work in contact with drinking water,
to high temperature and extremely
coffee and tea.
aggressive applications. Almost all fittings
fittings worldwide. The family-owned company with its headquarters and the manufacturer facility in the North of Italy has always had a special focus on the Food & Beverage industry which nowadays represents one of the main markets. Today Cmatic boasts ten product lines especially developed for Food & Beverage applications and all of them are in compliance with M.O.C.A. (European certification for Materials in contact with Food) and certified according to NSF/ANSI 169 (National Sanitation Foundation USA)
Made of a special brass with a low lead content in compliance with the NSF 372 and the Safe Water Drinking Act (SDWA), these fittings are certified according to
are rigid and completely made of AISI 316 L Stainless Steel. XT Line, tri-clover fittings
the NSF 169 and MOCA standards.
The most recent news
STAINLESS STEEL FITTINGS
series of tri-clover sanitary
MX & PX Lines, push-in fittings.
to Cmatic catalogue is a fittings. Mostly used in Wineries, breweries and dairies to connect
BRASS FITTINGS
A complete range of push-
hoses to fermenters and kettles, these
in fittings entirely made of
connections consist of two connectors,
AV Line, brass Chemical nickel-plated
316L (1.4404) stainless-
a silicon seal and a tri-clamp to hold
steel allow for connections
everything in place.
fittings. Entirely made of brass and subject to the NSF-51 certified chemical nickel-plating surface treatment, this range of fittings is a perfect fit for the food processing and chemical industry. High resistance to aggressive environments and high
48 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
in environments and working conditions where the use of brass would be incompatible.
Cmatic makes available both push-in and push-on adapters for food grade flexible hoses as well as compression adapters for
VX & PVX Lines, function fittings
stainless steel tubing.
a range of flow regulators, check valves,
www.cmatic.it/en/
Liquids and bulk solids remote inventory: IIoT monitoring sensors you can stick with! No cables, wires or boxes, capable
Non-contact Level sensors for liquids or bulk solids, using latest
of battery power for 10 years: level sensors for remote inventory, waste or
80GHz technology and up to
environmental monitoring
30m range that can last up to 10 years on battery power
It’s no secret. The bulk logistics and purchasing sectors are always looking for simple, streamlined ways of remote monitoring of their stocks. Successful implementation of ‘remote/vendor inventory management’ can deliver myriad direct benefits; perfectly timed logistics, CO2, fuel and time savings, optimised stocks, avoiding returned loads or emergency deliveries, less stress
and sensor installation, followed by often
STICK WITH IT
and process shutdowns. There are also
complex commissioning and integration
Combined with VEGA ‘SaaS’ (Software as
strategic gains through streamlined
into software systems. This is a new
a Service) VEGA Inventory System (VIS), to
purchasing and ordering, improved
technology emerging from the field of
install at your monitoring point it can be as
process and control, and it offers a greatly
simple as sticking it to an IBC, or installing
simplified solution in a single, battery
it onto a tank or silo, and activating at the
powered wireless sensor.
press of a button – then all you need is a
supplier-customer partnerships, and retention of supply contracts.
FAST PAYBACK The applications for bulk liquids and solids are many: Sites populated with fixed silos and tanks, mobile tanks and IBC’s, on road or rail transport, wastecollection containers, silos at temporary or semi-permanent sites. All offer different challenges; site access, product compatibility, container and infrastructure tracking. While many are based on justin-time supply and delivery, others are operating removal and disposal services.
GET IT RIGHT FIRST TIME VEGAPULS Air is the first IIoT level sensor range of its kind - designed and manufactured for all types of vessels storing or transporting bulk liquids and solids; from waste water to chemicals, fine powders to plastic pellets, animal feeds to aggregates. It has wireless communication, stand-alone battery power for up to 10 years, vessel measurement ranges up to 30m, as
login to see your data and begin managing your logistics/supply-chains effectively, whether on the desktop or mobile App using tables, maps and predicted usage. Tabulated inventory data on your designated web pages - starts at the press of a button on the battery powered standalone non- contact radar level sensor for bulk solids or liquids VEGA offer truly visible, global inventory
well as being ready to locate via GPS,
management, connecting you to the
communicate and provide your data – all
finished product tank outside your door,
in one compact sensing device. Simple to
the grain distribution depot in your city,
install, easy to set up and quick to deliver
international milk powder suppliers, or a
stock management information in the
sugar silo on the other side of the world.
format you need. VEGA are the world
From Sensor to Server, and to your Screen,
ONE SINGLE DEVICE, SIMPLER TO IMPLEMENT
leaders in non-contact radar level-sensing
VEGA take care, service and responsibility,
technology, with 30 years’ experience.
for it all. To discuss your requirements,
Up until now, the implementation of
Easy, reliable and cost effective, it means
ideas and explore solutions, or arrange a
remote monitoring has involved complex
you can be confident in the accuracy
test to see its capabilities, please contact
internal and external engineering, multiple
of your inventory, waste collection, or
VEGA Controls Ltd.
cross-department planning, programming,
environmental monitoring data, that you
external cabinets, power supplies, cabling
base your logistics decisions on.
Email: info.uk@vega.com Web: www.vega.com/uk
Because of the size and weight, speciality and often ‘dedicated’ nature of bulk shipping, an effective stock management overview has the capability for fast payback.
50 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
We bring colour into view! Compact pressure sensors and switches with 360° custom-colour status display
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£299 VEGABAR 39 Clamp 1"
www.vega.com/vegabar
Levoni Group Chooses Infor for Digital Transformation Infor have announced that Gruppo
around the world. With 700 employees,
and respond faster to changing demand
Levoni, a historic Italian company
Levoni is a group now in its fourth
throughout a global supply chain and
specializing in cured meats production,
generation that has made excellence a
in the factory. It provides operational
has chosen to implement Infor
distinctive character.
excellence functions designed for the food and beverage industry, supporting
CloudSuite Food & Beverage, an enterprise software solution designed
The strong evolution and
the ever-increasing transparency,
specifically for the food sector. The Infor
competitiveness of the market and
traceability, food safety and waste
solution based on Infor M3 enterprise
the need to satisfy consumers who
reduction requirements. Thanks to the
resource planning and Infor OS operating
are increasingly attentive to quality,
solution, Levoni will be able to manage
system will help create a digital
transparency and sustainability,
both the slaughterhouse and the
transformation path for Levoni. The
accentuated even more by the pandemic,
cured meat production, which are very
project will be entirely managed by Infor
have led Levoni to digitize production
different processes, with a single tool
Gold partner Atlantic Technologies.
processes, responding to the new habits
that provides full traceability from farm
of buyers and new consumer trends,
to fork.
Learn more about Infor CloudSuite Food
while ensuring a high level of efficiency. According to Levoni, Infor
& Beverage: https://www.infor.com/ en-gb/products/cloudsuite-food-and-
Following a careful evaluation of the
Implementation Accelerator makes the
beverage
solutions available on the market, Levoni
solution unique by offering predefined
found Infor CloudSuite Food & Beverage
and preconfigured processes based on
Founded in 1911, Levoni is synonymous
the ideal platform to manage the
high-value international experiences
with high-quality cured meats. Quality
complex processes of the food industry
in the food and beverage industry.
comes from selected Italian raw
and respond to the needs of the group.
Infor Implementation Accelerator will
materials and craftsmanship that is
Infor CloudSuite Food & Beverage is
allow Levoni to create new processes
perfectly integrated with the guarantees
based on Infor M3, an international ERP
and modify existing ones, starting
and safety standards of industrial
system with industry-specific capabilities
from worldwide proven industry best
systems. Levoni distributes its 100%
and predefined best-practices to achieve
practices, providing the agility to respond
Italian products to more than 10,000
results faster. The solution allows users
immediately to the increasingly frequent
delicatessens in Italy and to 50 countries
to more accurately plan for demand
changes in the market.
52 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
The implementation will allow Levoni
“We believe the Infor M3 solution
great pride for us,” said Bruno Pagani,
to embrace the logic of an integrated
with the Implementation Accelerator
Infor sales director for Italy. “The food
ecosystem connected with employees,
for Food & Beverage will allow us to
and beverage sector must adapt more
suppliers and collaborators, capable
achieve our project goals. The choice
and more to rapid changes in demand,
of managing the various aspects of
of an enterprise solution will allow us
and to respond to new customer
demand from an increasingly aware
to manage all the companies of the
requests, flexibility, agility, high safety
and demanding consumer. Thanks to
group with the same tool, and with
and compliance with regulations are
the technology roadmap drawn by
the Implementation Accelerator, we
required. I am sure that our specific
Atlantic Technologies, Levoni has laid
will approach the analysis phase of the
technology for the meat processing
out the foundations for effective process
project starting from the best practices
sector together with the great expertise
management and systems integration
relating to the processes of our sector,
of Atlantic Technologies will accelerate
aimed at creating synergy between the
and not from the typical ‘blank sheet,’
the innovation process of the Levoni
different areas and insights of value for
with the specific aim of maintaining
Group, supporting its growth.”
its business. The solution will be used by
the solution as standard as possible,”
about 230 users, distributed between
stated Roberto Pigni, Levoni Group’s
“We are very proud to collaborate with
the Italian and American offices, and
information systems director.
Levoni and lead its innovation process,”
will allow the company to rely on a
declared Angela Colucci, Atlantic
single system to manage all the group’s
“The Infor OS platform seemed to us
Technologies’ business development
activities and provide a holistic view of
a very powerful tool that will allow
director. “Atlantic has a consolidated
the business.
us to manage both the interfaces
experience with companies in the
with other business applications
food sector all over the world, helping
The implementation of the new ERP
and the automation of business
them to keep up with the evolution of
solution represents the first step in the
processes. We also greatly appreciate
demand and to satisfy the demands of
transformation of the group’s application
the expandability of the Infor M3
a consumer increasingly attentive to the
landscape. In the future, the analysis
application ecosystem, which contains
authenticity of the product. Thanks to
of the various integrations with the
product lifecycle management (PLM)
the innovative technology of Infor and
production lines of the group sites and
capabilities dedicated to the food sector
the specialized consultancy of Atlantic
the specific issues of the new product
and a solution for enterprise asset
Technologies, Levoni will be able to
development process are planned, as
management,” concludes Pigni.
manage the complex challenges of
well as the choice of an enterprise asset
the sector and ensure profitability and
management solution that meets the
“Supporting a prestigious company
business needs.
such as Levoni, which represents ‘Made in Italy’ internationally, is a source of
resilience.” To learn more, visit www.infor.com.
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 53
Micronel reduce operating costs with decentralised compact dc blower solutions Micronel dc blowers save space, energy and money compared to other air sources such as bulky side channel blowers and compressed air systems. Saving energy not only conserves resources but is also good for the balance sheet. That is why machine and plant manufacturers as well as production companies rely on Micronel highperformance blowers in process control and automation applications. The reliable high-tech solutions enable new and more efficient application possibilities and promote independence in comparison with previous compressed air systems. Thanks to their very small compact sizes, Micronel blowers are suitable for decentralised installations and can be placed adjacent to the relevant process
hPa, flow volume 820 l/min) with a
applications such as drying and cleaning
power consumption of 100 watts pays
processes, where high pressure and
for itself in energy savings after only half
a considerable volume of air are
a year.
constantly required. Micronel blowers
reducing pressure losses incurred in
The compact U100 dc blower family
long air supply lines and allows flexible
features a tough full aluminium IP67
installation without the need to install or relocate air lines. Dynamic blower control allows air supply to be called up as on demand as required, increasing the
housing, efficient brushless dc motor with integrated electronic driver for plug n run capability and ease of use, M16 connector and has G¾ inch pipe threads
efficiency of the application.
for 32mm tight hose connections.
Here is a simple example: compared to
class IP67 with connected suction and
a conventional Air-Knife compressed air
discharge ports.
application, with an annual consumption of 60000 m³ air volume, a Micronel Radial Blower U100H4 (pressure 165
The housing complies with protection
The 2 stage U100H4 can generate over 165 mBar (16,500 pascals) of pressure and achieve free blowing air flow over 900 litres per minute (54 metres cubed per hour) all from a very compact small size package of 107mm
suction and extraction processes, such as pick & place processes or vacuum holding or conveying technology. A full range of accessories are also available including air knives, filters, and antivibration mountings. Micronel specialise in High Performance Blowers and Fans, their fan and blower products meet the needs of industries with special performance characteristics – Medical, Electronics Cooling, Personal Protection, Packaging, Gas Analysis, Laboratory, Transportation, Process Control and many more applications. Micronel offer customers the widest
x 107mm x 118mm. With typical power
choice of standard ultra-slim fans,
consumption of 100 – 180 watts
axial fans and high performance high
depending on working point they can pay
pressure radial blowers from UK stock
for themselves in energy savings after
and provide technical design support
only a few months.
for modified products and client specific
The performance and cost savings of the blowers is particularly evident in
54 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
are also extremely advantageous in
designs. www.micronel.co.uk
MICRONEL MINIATURE FANS AND BLOWERS
BLOWERS FOR PRESSURIZED AIR AND SUCTION APPLICATIONS
lutions reduce o s r e w lo b d e z li a Decentr ave energy! s d n a ts s o c g n ti opera PRESSURIZED AIR IS EXPENSIVE!
ADVANTAGES OF MICRONEL BLOWERS
Compressing air in a compressed air system requires a
• Compact design and flexible positioning at point of use
lot of power and results in continuous pressure losses
• Extremely small sizes – Typically 50 mm diameter
during transport from the point of generation to the point
up to 100 mm x 100 mm square
of consumption - This makes compressed air one of the
• Lower operating costs with higher efficiency
most expensive forms of energy of its kind. For this reason,
• Work independently of existing compressed air systems
Micronel‘s powerful compact blowers are becoming
• Robust aluminum housing for harsh industry conditions
increasingly utilized in the market for pressure and vacuum
• Maintenance free and long lifetime
applications.
• Quiet operation with optional silencer and accessories
Micronel UK Ltd. Unit 53, The Arches Industrial Estate Alma Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 3HY United Kingdom
Phone +44 1753 641 412 info@micronel.co.uk www.micronel.com
Surviving the ‘new normal’: investing in agile technologies is key to a resilient food and beverage industry Brian Foster, Head of Industry Finance, at
quick enough to the ‘new normal’ will
The challenges inhibiting investment,
Siemens Financial Services, UK
run the risk of getting left behind.
however, are considerable. Our latest
The economic impact of the current
Unsurprisingly then, companies who
pandemic is expected to be significant
had invested in agile technologies and
and prolonged. Last year, the food and
machinery were best placed to react to
beverage industry has had to rapidly
shifting market demands with optimal
adapt to changing circumstances
flexibility when the crisis hit. Companies
and patterns of consumption – be it
with automated and digitalised
suppressed or increased demand. Some
production units were less affected by
businesses have even had to reduce
the lockdown-induced staff shortages,
their food product ranges just to keep
for instance, making them more
pace with surging demands. While
that manufacturers can stand to gain
resilient. Surviving recent disruptions
from digitalising their processes is
most businesses in the industry were
required business agility on all fronts –
significant.
able to escape the threat of temporary
and companies that weren’t sufficiently
shutdown, many are also coming to the
equipped for a drop in demand were
Research from Siemens Financial
realization that supply patterns, ways of
faced with a lack of cold storage for
Services (SFS) has shown that
working and labour practices are likely
perishables, for instance. Conversely,
manufacturers can stand to gain an
to be fundamentally and permanently
manufacturers equipped with ‘digital
additional 6.3 – 9.8% of their annual
changed. The industry will be reshaped
twins’ were able to simulate coronavirus
revenues from bringing digitalization
in the medium- to long-term and
impact scenarios and react quickly and
into their manufacturing operations.
companies that are unable to adapt
effectively in volatile situations.
56 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
report “Rising to the new challenge: the role of Smart Finance in helping navigate the economic ‘new normal’” conservatively estimates that over the next five years $567 billion in investment funds are needed for digital transformation alone in the global food and beverage industry. Nonetheless, the incremental increase in annual revenue
Even as the crisis recedes, food
term investments. That being said,
challenging environment, smart financing
and beverage companies will need
commentators suggest that companies
models are emerging. Smart finance,
to integrate business agility into
who continue to invest even throughout
embedded as part of the overall value
their operations if they are to cope
difficult economic situations typically
with continued uncertainty and
proposition, will be a key enabler for
emerge ahead of their competitors,
volatile markets. Looking to future
solutions providers across the entire
gaining long-term competitive
competitiveness and resilience in the
advantage over their counterparts.
technology and machinery supply chain.
“new normal,” sensor technology and
This means that the pandemic and its
machine learning are already being
economic aftermath have in fact made
used by the brewing industry to predict
the importance of investing in new
when beer moves from fermentation
technology more important – not less.
to the free rise phase – effectively “teaching” technology to predict when it
In fact, the urgent challenges of the
is ready for the next stage of production.
pandemic and its long-term effects
Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) has
may even compress the timeline for
been employed to identify hazards in
investing into a shorter period. Previous
milk or detect machinery faults before
research from SFS estimated the window
they occur. All of these applications help
of opportunity left to gain competitive
to minimize downtime, prevent spoilt
advantage from investing in digitalisation
batches and increase the operational
to be 5-7 years away. After this point,
efficiency of the production line.
manufacturers having not invested may
Aware of the enhanced operating agility and efficiency that digitalisation offers, 74% of SMEs in the industry have already made steps towards improving
struggle to ever catch-up. It is likely that this estimation may even need to be narrowed to account for the impact of the crisis.
Smart finance for digital transformation in manufacturing tends to come from integrated specialist financiers, where the funder understands the technology, the sector, the applications and the operating pressures. Using this knowledge, they can create and align financing structures that are focused on achieving recognizable and clearly identified desired business outcomes for the manufacturer, through access to the right technology, services and advice. Aligning payments to commercial outcomes is particularly important during an economic period where all expenditure has to deliver an exceptionally clear and tangible link to business benefits. Smart vendor
production processes through digital
Acquiring new technologies often
finance makes digital transformation
technologies. In times of crisis, however,
requires a considerable investment which
more financially sustainable for food and
investment appetite tends to shrink
many companies will struggle to meet
beverage manufacturers – removing
as companies feel a need to focus on
without external support. To provide
their obstacles to investment.
shorter-term returns and on staying afloat rather than looking to modernize existing equipment through longer-
food and beverage manufacturers – large and small – with a financially sustainable path through the current
The consensus among global analysts is that it is critical to maintain new technology adoption even in times of economic difficulty. The benefits are clear – increased agility, productivity, lower energy consumption and even lower inventory holding costs. Moving towards smart factory technologies can put manufacturers in a better position to bounce back from the crisis and minimize the impact of future changes in consumer behaviours. Cautious food and beverage companies may be thinking of deferring investment based on the current economic outlook, but this would be a mistake. As the window for competitive advantage from investment continues to diminish, with the crisis narrowing this timeframe, part in this, manufacturers are increasingly turning to integrated finance options to accelerate their digitalisation journey. www.siemens.com/global/en.html
FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk 57
ATEX compliant Fully Automatic Sack Opening Solution Palamatic produce food grade materials handling solutions including Vacuum Lifters, Automatic Sack Opening machines and hygienic lifting and handling systems. Equipment is produced in stainless steel and can be provided with food grade options to suit clean process areas. Where dust is an issue, ATEX certified equipment can be offered. Recently a valued customer and global manufacturer of food materials, had a requirement to upgrade manufacturing facilities and production machinery to replace end of life equipment. Their need was to open and discharge 180 sacks of ingredients per batch and required a system compliant to latest ATEX directives. The equipment needed to meet COSHH regulations, health and safety guidelines and to improve process efficiency. Our recommendation was our new to the range, PAL-F-AST ATEX compliant Fully Automatic Sack Opening Machine. The PAL-FAST machine is a fully automatic solution for medium throughput sack discharging for up to 3-5 sack a minute. Ideal for food, pharmaceutical and chemical
automatically starting the opening
with optional HMI display. It is
applications where production is
and emptying process and feeds the
manufactured in stainless steel with
discharged into a mixing process, all
emptied sack into the waste sack
contact parts in stainless steel 304L or
within a safe dust free environment
compactor. The door automatically
316L. The system is ATEX by standard
without the need for manual cutting
opens in readiness for the next sack to
and can be offered with a range of
of sacks. The system is designed to
be loaded. The compact design of this
powder discharge options and waste
prevent any contamination from the
machine ensures the neatest footprint,
sack collection systems.
outer bag once the bag is inside the
and another important feature is that
machine body thus keeping the product
the product is never in contact with the
contamination free.
outer sack.
The operator can load the PAL-FAST
The system is an electro - pneumatically
-MF using a Palamatic Vacuum
powered machine that can be supplied
Tube lifter to lift the sacks. The
with either a pneumatic logic control
door is manually closed which locks
system or a plc control panel complete
58 FDPP - www.fdpp.co.uk
For more information please contact us on E: sales@palamatic.com W: www.palamatic.com
Handling Solutions Designed For You
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