Loma targets space-savings with combined system
The CW3 SlimLine combination integrates the CW3 Checkweigher with Loma’s IQ3+ Metal Detector.
The CW3 Integrated Combo has been on sale since 2008 and has a typical length of a 2200mm, depending on head size, this can be reduced by up to 200mm, said the firm.
It allows suppliers to meet the quality assurance demands of retailers with cost savings of up to 15% when compared to the purchase of two individual units.
The space-saving generates opportunities for increased line automation, greater productivity and higher levels of operator safety, said the firm.
Flexibility in factories
Production managers need flexibility to refine the factory layout to achieve maximum productivity.
Dave Phillips, R&D Manager at Loma Systems, explained that the narrower model reduces sensitivity but space concerns are more of an issue.
“Making the metal detector narrower will reduce sensitivity, it is an unfortunate compromise, but we have tried hard to minimise the effect of this and the results we have had so far are encouraging,” he told FoodQualityNews.com.
“The first driver is the combination of checkweigher capabilities and metal detection in a smaller solution, the simplicity and the fact you have to check weigh by law and have to do your most to make sure to prevent metal contamination.
“The CW3 has one user interface for the checkweigher and the metal detector, so you have not got independent systems to set up. The checkweigher weighs the packs and provides details on rejected packs and if they are seen to have metal in them and are contaminated it doesn’t weigh them so they are not included in the statistics.”
Variable frequency tech
The IQ3+ metal detector uses variable frequency technology which means that products can be automatically calibrated in seconds and frequency data for different products can be stored.
Contaminated products are rejected by a pusher mechanism, diverter or air-blast.
The CW3 Checkweigher identifies over and under-weight packs, and an independent rejection function means that off-weight product content can be reused and repacked.
It is built with heavy-duty conveyor components – incorporating quick-change belts - and is designed for tough industrial environments with brushed 304 stainless steel housing and meeting IP65 wash-down specifications.
“There is one controller which is a touch screen set up at one position so the product details are stored for check weighing and metal detection,” added Phillips.
“If you had two systems you would have to change the product on both systems which brings in the opportunity for error if you change it on one but not the other.”
