{"id":8048,"date":"2023-07-07T22:33:07","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T22:33:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/controlconceptsusa.com\/?p=8048"},"modified":"2023-07-17T22:34:12","modified_gmt":"2023-07-17T22:34:12","slug":"how-to-improve-material-handling-efficiency-in-the-food-industry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/controlconceptsusa.com\/how-to-improve-material-handling-efficiency-in-the-food-industry\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Improve Material Handling Efficiency in the Food Industry"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"food<\/p>\n

The food industry follows strict industry and government regulations for quality control and product safety. If your business fails to comply, you could face stiff fines and penalties and suspension of license. In cases when authorities feel that there\u2019s a risk to consumer health, you may be required to recall all your products at your own expense.<\/p>\n

Many of these industry regulations \u2013 such as the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and the Codex Alimentarius \u2013 set standards for material handling efficiency.<\/p>\n

For example, they require proactive, preventative measures against material spoilage and contamination. The food industry uses many materials that quickly degrade or develop mold or microorganisms. In addition to prioritizing safety and following proper handling practices, it is crucial to prevent your material from becoming stagnant and adhere to the FIFO principle.<\/p>\n

First-In, First-Out (FIFO) Flow<\/h2>\n

In a nutshell, FIFO ensures that the oldest material is used first. It maintains the freshness, integrity, and even nutritional value and consistency of the material and the final product.<\/p>\n

FIFO starts in the warehouse. Clearly label products with their production or expiration dates and establish proper inventory rotation procedures. Regularly monitor stock levels and adjust replenishment orders accordingly to maintain optimal inventory turnover.<\/p>\n

However, FIFO is also important during the production process: when material sits in silos and hoppers. Many bulk powders and solids have a tendency to segregate or stick to vessel walls. Others are prone to bridging and ratholing.<\/p>\n

Bridging occurs when a solid bulk material forms an arch or bridge over an opening, obstructing the material flow, while ratholing happens when material funnels through a central flow channel.<\/p>\n

In all these cases, stagnant material is left inside the vessel.<\/strong> This increases the risk of spoilage and contamination and compromises the quality and safety of the entire batch run.<\/p>\n

Achieve material handling efficiency and safety with AirSweep<\/h2>\n

AirSweep is an innovative flow aid system that can help achieve a First-In, First-Out (FIFO) flow during material handling.<\/p>\n

AirSweep releases bursts of compressed air to dislodge and activate material that may have become stagnant or formed bridges or ratholes in storage vessels.<\/p>\n

By installing AirSweep units at key points within the storage vessel or hopper, the system effectively breaks up material bridges and ratholes. Material can flow freely and consistently.<\/p>\n

AirSweep is effective for all materials, including damp and sticky powders and solids used in the food industry. Watch how it works on corn grits that have been soaked in water and left in the hopper for three days. The air pulses break up the hard, cakey mixture in minutes.<\/p>\n