Efficient weight control and checkweighing systems are integral to meeting consumer expectations .
nominal label weight on the package .
• The percentage of packages that fall below the nominal weight should typically not exceed 2.5 %. These are called tolerable negative error ( TNE ) in Europe , the limits of error ( LOE ) in Canada , and maximum allowable variation ( MAV ) in the US .
• No individual package can have a weight that falls outside the nominal quantity by more than twice the domestic defined tolerance table .
Tolerance tables can be difficult to navigate . Manually determining and programming the correct checkweighing tolerance for specific product applications and pack sizes can be a tedious and confusing process . It can also be prone to human error .
To help processors accommodate numerous weight check product variations , Fortress integrates these defined tolerance tables into its
Raptor Checkweigher software . This provides instant adherence to the local legislative weight regulations .
OPTIMISING CHECKWEIGHING EFFICIENCY
It is widely regarded that weight checking every product on processing lines is good manufacturing practice . Fortress engineered digital signal processing into the Raptor Checkweighing series to enable the weight sensors to reset rapidly , allowing for instant and precise weight checks of individual packs in real-time . Trend feedback signals can then be instantly fed upstream to filling , portioning and packing automation equipment , signalling when to increase or decrease fill quantity .
Another benefit of automated checkweighing is the utilisation of automated reporting and data tools . Besides reducing false rejects and product waste , the use of modern network technologies allows for automatic data transmission . With integrated data collection software , everything from trends , pack rates and live OEE data is instantly reported . Production and QA personnel can then utilise this trend feedback to monitor and fine-tune production line performance , even prior to the weight check process .
For example , if a meat manufacturer finds inconsistencies in the size of meatballs , this indicates that the processing machinery is not running accurately . Beyond highlighting this fault , precision checkweighing systems can provide a controlled feedback signal to upstream automation equipment used to portion food products . This signal specifies when to increase or decrease the fill quantity accordingly , eliminating the need for human intervention .
STAYING ON TREND
Linking consumer lifestyle trends back to checkweighing tolerances is equally important . In wellbeing and weight control products , for example , absolute weight conformity is non-negotiable . If a snack pack states 100 grams , the tolerance cannot deviate by more than 0.5 grams .
Leaving the weight check until the end of the process is another highly wasteful activity , as it could result in an entire consignment of baked or packaged products being recalled . Additionally , it wastes many hours wasted in production and workforce salaries .
Fortress integrates defined tolerance tables into its Raptor Checkweigher software , providing instant adherence to the local legislative weight regulations .
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