PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY
Belt slides on discharge stations can help ensure that products can smoothly slide without damage.
buffer which employs the FIFO principle to ensure that the cookies are always packed fresh. A belt buffer ensures gentle handling of the cookies, while making line supervision easy. Cleaning and maintenance are also easy thanks to modular design of the buffer which removes the need for platforms or ladders. Product handover from processing to the buffer simply requires the cookies to be flat on a belt, with an even spread across the belt. Downstream of the buffer, cookies are streamlined on two lanes. This is an essential element on the line, as it provides a first mixing across different lanes, reducing issues caused by a variable dimension in diameter and thickness of products, which helps ensure minimal product giveaway in the packs. As the cookies are streamlined one behind the other, a 3D inspection device – which works at speeds of up to 1,000 products per minute – ensures that any out-of-spec products are rejected. Remember that, without a buffer system, any issues with packaging machines or other surrounding production-line equipment might bring production lines to a halt, resulting
bakeryproduction.co.uk
in costly product waste. Massimo argues that a properly structured buffer will
boost efficiency, reduce waste and can also create a better working environment for packing line operators. “Many organisations today are now turning to line simulation tools to help them evaluate speed, efficiency, line availability and accurately predict their buffering requirements. The more accurate the line can be made during the engineering phase, the less waste and loss of availability the line is likely to create during its lifetime.” As we have found out, packaging equipment can have a
big role to play in helping to give bakery products a longer shelf life, which is becoming an increasingly important consideration today. Of course, different bakery products will require different packaging methods and materials, but the way forward across the board if for more sustainable packaging solutions which the required meet food safety regulations and which can still ensure adequate protection for the product. Across the board, however, waste reduction is key.
Kennedy’s Bakery Production April/May 2023 43
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