Food processing equipment features some of the most sophisticated automation around. But most machines are assembled manually. That’s because high-mix, low volume production is the rule rather than the exception.
Food processing machinery comes in all shapes and sizes to meet the widespread demands of companies that produce beverages, bakery items, candy, dairy, goods frozen food, fruit, meat, poultry, seafoods, snack food, vegetables and other edibles. Equipment categories include chillers, dryers, feeders, fryers, grinders homogenizers, mixers, roasters, separators, slicers and ovens.
Most food processing machines have similar automation and motion control needs, such as material conveying and positioning, heating, drying and cooling. They also require cleanliness, gentle handling and precise control of temperatures, pressures, treatment lines and other process parameters,
In addition, food processing machinery is often seamlessly integrated with high-speed packaging and labeling equipment.
Equipment and systems designed for the food processing industry share many of the same basic components used in discrete manufacturing, including compressors, electric motors, pumps, and valves. But the machines become even more complex digital sensors, pipes, transmitters, tanks, tubes and other components are added into the mix.
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