The Critical Role of Conveying Systems in the Bakery Workflow

Conveying systems, particularly those employing belts, are integral to the seamless flow of raw materials and finished products throughout the manufacturing process. Understanding the nuances of these systems is crucial for bakers aiming to optimize productivity and maintain the highest standards of quality.

At its core, conveying in an industrial bakery refers to the systematic movement of ingredients, dough, and finished goods from one stage of production to another. This process significantly enhances operational efficiency by minimizing manual handling, reducing downtime, and streamlining production cycles. 

One of the primary considerations for bakers is the design of the system. The layout must be meticulously crafted to align with the specific needs of the bakery’s production line. A well-designed conveying system ensures a smooth and continuous workflow, preventing bottlenecks and optimizing the overall efficiency of the operation.

Rotzinger Group, a leading provider of automation solutions, recently showcased its advanced Hygienic Conveyor for dry cleaning at iba Munich. Designed for confectionery and bakery products, the hygienic conveyor is optimized for dry cleaning, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety regulations in European food manufacturing. Leveraging decades of expertise in pick and place delta robots, buffering and conveying, the new integrated solution from Rotzinger combines flexibility, compactness, and ease of operation to boost uptime and reduce the total cost of ownership.

“Our Hygienic Conveyor for dry cleaning and Robot with an Integrated Buffer have been specifically designed to tackle the escalating concerns regarding efficiencies and heightened sanitary requirements in food production. With their intuitive controls and streamlined design, these solutions aim to enhance productivity and optimize operations,” says Christian Vouillamoz, product manager, Rotzinger Group.

Foodborne illnesses affect a significant number of individuals in Europe each year, highlighting the importance of preventing contamination and bacterial buildup in food production facilities.

Rotzinger has developed a Hygienic Conveyor for dry cleaning, specifically designed to address food safety concerns and adhere to the highest hygienic standards. This innovative conveyor incorporates an intelligent cleaning design, featuring a foldable belt and beveled or rounded horizontal surfaces that prevent the accumulation of dirt particles and crumbs, thereby reducing the risk of mold infestation. The side panels no longer run horizontally parallel to the belt, but are inclined at 45 degrees to allow easier shedding of product residue. A hinged belt support enables easy access for efficient cleaning and maintenance. The conveyor’s stainless-steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting performance.

Furthermore, the Hygienic Conveyor provides flexibility in size range, accommodating a wide range of requirements. It offers width options ranging from 150 to 1800 mm; and length options from 400 to 35,000 mm, allowing it to meet the most challenging layout requirements with ease.

Hygiene Makes the Difference

Hygiene and sanitation stand out as paramount considerations in the selection of conveying systems for industrial bakeries. The food industry demands a stringent commitment to cleanliness, and conveying systems are no exception. Bakers scrutinize the materials used in the construction of belts, ensuring they meet the highest standards for food-grade applications. Smooth, non-porous surfaces and easily cleanable components are imperative, minimizing the risk of contamination and facilitating thorough sanitation procedures.

The choice of belt material further underscores the commitment to hygiene. Food-grade belts, often made of materials like polyurethane or polyester, not only meet regulatory requirements but also resist the accumulation of debris and bacteria. This focus on cleanliness is not merely a regulatory obligation but a strategic investment in maintaining product integrity and safeguarding consumer trust.

Beyond hygiene, the durability and reliability of conveying systems are key factors influencing the decision-making process for bakers. The demanding nature of industrial bakery operations necessitates robust systems capable of withstanding the rigors of continuous use. Choosing belts with high tensile strength, resistance to wear, and minimal elongation ensures longevity and minimizes the risk of unexpected downtime.

Predictive Maintenance

Ashworth Belts B.V., the industry pioneer, and leading conveyor belt manufacturer, recently introduced the SmartSpiral® Monitoring System – an innovative application that provides real-time remote monitoring of multiple machines at multiple locations. 

You can read the rest of this article in the November-December issue of European Baker & Biscuit, which you can access by clicking here.