AMF Bakery Systems Presents New Technologies at interpack
AMF Bakery Systems presents its robotics technologies dedicated to the bakery industry at interpack, in Dusseldorf, Germany. The company provides complete automated bakery solutions including dough mixing, dividing, make-up, proofing, baking, cooling, packaging, basket/case loading, and product distribution.
We spoke with AMF Bakery Systems about the technology showcased at interpack and about the company’s expectations regarding this new edition of the trade fair (May 4-10).
WB: What technology are you introducing at interpack that represents your latest innovation? Please share details about the functionality and role of the innovative equipment.
AMF: “AMF’s fully-automated basket loading systems incorporate a variety of robotic loading technologies including articulating arm robots, gantry, or pick and place robots for the most gentle product handling. Recipe-management systems allow for easy product changeover with multiple pattern configurations available. Automated basket loaders are integrated with AMF’s complete basket handling systems to provide the most efficient post-packaging operation.
For the efficient mixing of cookies, crackers, biscuits, stiff doughs, and specialty snacks, AMF Bakery Systems introduces the Sigma Arm Mixer. Designed with sanitation in mind, the mixer is constructed with an easy access, tubular offset frame and stainless steel sigma arm blade. The bowl, designed for maximum strength and minimum deflection, offers unmatched reliability for small and large batch sizes.
The redesigned, custom-configured, spiral conveyor from AMF Bakery Systems incorporates the latest sanitary design elements, including a patent-pending monopiece cage bar, for efficient cleaning and maintenance. Equipped with plastic modular belting using Intralox DirectDrive™ System technology, AMF’s Spiral Conveyors are offered for a variety of applications including: dough ball intermediate proofing, product proofing, product cooling and product freezing. “
WB: What do you consider today’s major breakthrough innovations in packaging and related technologies with applications in bakery and confectionery products, and why?
AMF: “Our Servo Dual-Lane Variety Bagger for bulk bun packaging delivers the most efficient bagging for buns, rolls, and English muffins while ensuring maximum product control. The patent-pending high-speed indexer creates precision product alignments for over 70 packages per minute. Featuring 50% slower critical component movements, the dual-lane packaging system ensures higher throughput capabilities with improved product delivery. In-line stacking eliminates the high-speed lateral transfer for unmatched product control. While eliminating product flow interruption, a patent-pending automatic wicket exchange system offers automated last bag detection.”
WB: Industry 4.0 is one of the major conversation topics at interpack and in the baking industry. How is the Internet of Things changing industrial bakery production?
AMF: “AMF has unveiled AMFConnect™ offering you the most advanced decision-making solutions. This proprietary technology integrates real-time production line data and machine status information into one or more localized operator stations throughout your facility. Key personnel gain access to critical operational information, allowing your team to make better, faster decisions.” Starting February 2017, AMF Bakery Systems has a new president, Jason Ward.