31 Jan
2019

Introduction to Smart Meat Processing #4

We are approaching the end of our series on smart meat processing! This before last article covers one of the last stages of the value chain, being the packaging and labelling process.

Smart Meat Processing
Introduction to Smart Meat Processing #4

Our meat processing series is almost coming to an end but we couldn't end it without tackling one of the very last steps of the supply chain - packaging. The procedure is as follows: deli sausage is generally packaged in plastic bags, a machine vacuum-seal and date-stamps them. They are then chilled and frozen to a maximum of of -4°F or -20°C. The product temperature should be monitored during the vacuum-sealing process to ensure better shelf-life and eliminate bacteria. Packaging is an operation that requires the implication of various types of equipment. We've highlighted a few for you.

 

 

Slicer

The slicer is critical equipment in the value process. Extended downtimes can compromise the sanitary condition of the equipment and have the potential to waste a lot of product.

Common brands of slicers include Weber, Cashin, Groete, Formax.

 

Thermoforming

Thermoformers have a key role in product packaging, since they impact finished product aesthetic, shelf life and quality. Extended downtime can compromise the sanitary condition of the equipment and this has the potential to waste a lot of product.

For this type of task, Multivac, Repack, VC999, Ross, Supervac figure amongst widely used brands.

 

VFFS

Baggers have an important role in product packaging, since the packaged product is impacted aesthetically, designed shelf life and quality. Extend downtimes can compromise the sanitary condition of the equipment, with the potential to waste a lot of product.

Popular brands of meat baggers comprise of Ilapak, Toyo Jidoki, Barry Wehmiller, Hayssen, Zip Pak, Pacific Packaging.

 

Box erector
Box erectors and case packers, semi-automatic or fully automatic, allow a smooth flow of packaged product to be palletized. Downtime and Uptime on these machines means the work order is completed on time, or not.

 

 

Labeling

The labeler, printers and all equipement identifying packaged product has a dual role: it adds a label to easily identify packaged product, and it also provides a bar code (or equivalent identifier) so that the packaging can be traced in inventory management software. Labeler downtime penalizes timely work order completion and can compromise correct accountability of finished product.

Brands such as Videojet, Imaje, Markem can be seen for labelers.

 

Metal detector

Metal detectors are used near the end of the value chain, once the product is ready for final packaging.  Downtime on any metal detector means all packaging operations upstream must stop.

Frequently seen metal detectors are from brands LOMA, Ceia, Fortress.


Key Performance Indicators

As per the previous articles, here are some KPIs that can be followed at this stage:

  • Packing line uptime
  • Throughput in terms of speed
  • Giveaway relating to checkweighers
  • Yield
  • Quality (with metal detection)
  • Reduction of downtime costs at the end of the line (direct labor cost)

Learn more about real-time data collection in your factory right here.

Want to learn more?
Download the ebook
Related blog articles

Related articles

Back to the blog
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
10
Aug 2018

Why Monitor Mixing Process? Deli Meat Processing Series Part 2

English
9
Aug 2018

How to Optimize the Grinding Process? Deli Meat Processing Series Part 1

English
11
Jul 2018

Executives and the Transformative Digital Experience in IIoT

English

Related articles

Back to the blog
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
7
Sep 2023

Mitigating Debt Servicing Challenges with Production Monitoring

Interest rates are up, and demand is down. Strapped with higher loan repayments many of today’s manufacturers are caught in the middle. Read how optimizing manufacturing operations is mitigating the challenges of debt servicing.

English
24
Aug 2023

Simplifying Adoption of Smart Technology for Manufacturers of All Types and Sizes

It's time we stopped talking about the challenges plaguing manufacturers and started focusing more on the solutions and opportunities that can help mitigate them.

English
17
Aug 2023

Weathering the Storm: Responding to Inflation's Effects on Manufacturing

There are many things that manufacturers cannot control. Such as inflation. What you can control is how you prepare for it. Companies with an eye on growth understand that these are the times to invest in technology. Read this blog to see why.

English