Food Manufacturing

IIoT and Smart Technology, the challenges and solutions

Applying new technology to a physical process or manufacturing system is an essential part of progress; however, the practical side of implementing the latest Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Smart Technology solutions is bringing its own unique challenges. That, in turn, is leading to new automation solutions. Chris Evans, Marketing and Operations Group Manager of Mitsubishi Electric UK, looks at the latest challenges and solutions.

26th March 2020

Flexible impeller pumps and their advantages

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) often require versatile, cost-effective, compact and reliable pumps for their equipment. All these qualities are often very difficult to find in one pump type, and it is in these situations where flexible impeller pumps shine.

14th February 2020

What is the best type of robot controller?

The current trend of robot control is changing with PLC-based systems offering different benefits and opportunities over the traditional dedicated robot controllers. So what needs to be considered when selecting the right option for the application? Barry Weller, Product Manager at Mitsubishi Electric, looks at how to determine which robot control option is best.

11th December 2019

App-based programming offers easy route to tailored sensors

Neil Sandhu Sick's UK Product Manager for Imaging, Measurement, Ranging and Systems, discusses the benefits offered by app-based programming for machine builders and system integrators wanting to create specialised sensors that perform very specific tasks.

22nd October 2019

Ending unplanned downtime for food and beverage manufacturers

With any unscheduled downtime being a cause of major headaches for food and drink manufacturers, John Rowley of Mitsubishi Electric highlights how predictive maintenance can provide the solution and how easy it is to implement.

4th September 2019

Phytron celebrates 30 years of contribution to space exploration

Phytron GmbH managing director Dr-Ing. Robert Stößer has contributed the following article, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing this year and also illustrating his company's significant contribution to the automation of precision instruments deployed on many other space missions over the last 30 years. As a leading UK-based motion control component supplier, customised systems integrator and designer, Mclennan works closely with Phytron and, through its expertise gained over several years, is actively involved in and looking for high-vacuum, extreme-temperature and other motion control applications in challenging environments.

22nd August 2019

Continuous monitoring and analysis of water quality

Water is used in so many ways throughout the food and beverage industry, even as the final product, which means the quality of that water needs to be carefully monitored. With such an influence on the finished product, precise water quality monitoring can provide the key to consistent quality output, so is it time to look at the next generation of compact continuous analysis solutions? Greg Wainhouse, UK Water Segment Manager for Bürkert, looks at water usage within the food and beverage sector, and the best practical method of continuous monitoring for various aspects of water quality as it enters the process.

21st August 2019

Smart manufacturing and automation

Chris Evans, Marketing & Operations Group Manager at Mitsubishi Electric, discusses the implementation of smart manufacturing projects incorporating intelligent machines, systems and networks.

19th August 2019

Flow measurement in the food and beverage sector

Manufacturers in the food and beverage industry have two main priorities: product quality and hygiene. For those operating with different fluids, from fruit juice to milk, chocolate and beer, there are many challenges in measuring flow while at the same time minimising waste and energy usage. Mark Lilley, Field Segment Manager Hygienic - food & beverage at Bürkert, looks at how the latest technology in fluid flow measurement can overcome these challenges and deliver additional benefits.

2nd August 2019

Why V guide bearing systems meet the needs of food production

One of the largest industries globally, the food and beverage industry is a core element of the UK manufacturing economy. Comprising of many different sectors including the bakery sector, confectionary, meat processing, drinks industries, dairies and fish processing - the range is wide and demand is high.

24th July 2019

Technical Articles