Typically, you can expect to pay in the conditioners, this can drive up energy detector can run for 20+ years. Fortress
region of £4,000 to £18,000 for a consumption. Replacing generators and Technology can even upgrade its robust
metal detector, depending on the size sensor can also be quite costly. entry level Phantom metal detector with
and complexity of the application. Yet,
additional data capture features from its
compared to £35,000, potentially in In contrast, metal detectors are Stealth model should food factories need
excess of £80,000, to install x-ray, the designed to be more robust in extreme to comply with retailer codes of practice.
price difference is quite considerable. environments, e.g. freezers, wet Additionally, the price differential processing plants such as fish packing, Finally, depreciation of the equipment
between metal detectors and x-ray and when dry ingredients are prevalent, should be factored in. Safety and liability
systems increases incrementally such as flour in bakeries and food concerns often means that that x-ray
according to the size of the aperture. manufacturers that use or pack spices systems have limited or poor resale value.
and seasonings. Of course, other factors may outweigh
A common mistake when calculating Total
cost considerations.
Cost of Ownership is overlooking running The costs associated with product
costs for the lifetime of inspection changeovers, in addition to the floor
equipment and factoring in more subtle space occupied by the inspection
costs such as interruption to production, equipment, are also essential when doing
machine testing, training and support, TCO calculations.
and hidden vendor costs. These after-
purchase costs can be substantial and it’s Legacy inspection systems have a
quite customary for x-ray running costs reputation for being expensive to
to be much higher than metal detectors. maintain. To avoid scrapping good kit
prematurely, investigate the upgrade
For example, if the x-ray system requires options. Realistically, with the right
cooling systems, such as fans or air maintenance, a well-built metal
STUDY THE MACHINE’S SENSITIVITY
Global consumer awareness about food
integrity combined with the stricter
enforcement of regulatory standards
by producers and manufacturers is
accentuating demand for highly sensitive
inspection equipment. Many factors
impact sensitivity in both x-ray and metal
detectors, including aperture size.
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