To fully optimize safety within the factory when acquiring new food processing machinery, it is crucial to select equipment that is suitable for the intended application and use. First and foremost, it is highly recommended to check with your supplier that the food processing machinery you are acquiring meets your exact specifications. In doing so it will ensure the health and safety of those who operate it and minimize any potential risks that could result from improperly using the machine or food processing equipment.
Food processing machinery is susceptible to deterioration in performance over time due to wear and tear. It is crucial that operators utilize predictive and preventative maintenance as a tool to detect and prevent premature failure, rather than inefficient ‘breakdown’ maintenance and repetitive repair work.
It is important that as part of the preventative maintenance, the overall condition and integrity of the food processing machinery is assessed. If a failure to the machinery is detected too late, there is a high risk of contamination to the food or the product being produced. This will result in problems with your production, its quality and, consequently, costly product recalls.
Modern food processing machinery is designed to conform to certain manufacturing practices – of which are regularly re-evaluated and observed by all major manufacturers. Some common manufacturing design features include:
- Rounded joins where surfaces intersect – for easier cleaning
- Grounded and polished welds – to remove crevices
- Widely spaced threads with a square profile – for easier cleaning
- Valves that disassemble quickly and easily
- Avoidance of painted surfaces
It is important that food processing machinery is regularly cleaned and maintained. Procedures should be in place to allow food processing equipment that is operating incessantly to be serviced and cleaned thoroughly. Proper maintenance protocols protect the business, the manufacturing process and, importantly, the employees operating or working nearby the food processing equipment.
For instance, dull blades are liable to slip and cause products to jam in the machinery, broken seals can release oils into the processing system, worn out belts can snap and injure nearby workers. Additionally, the food and products that are being processed can become contaminated when the food processing equipment is not clean, unmaintained or not operating at the standard or purpose that they should be.
At Interfood Machinery Group we not only assist in the selection and installation of food processing machinery, we offer ongoing support to everyone we supply. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable team is suitably prepared to assist you in finding the most appropriate food processing equipment for your industry. Call your closest Interfood Machinery location to discuss how we can best assist you and your business.
Brisbane – 07 3245 8000
Sydney – 02 9771 1955
Melbourne – 0413 056 535