Automation Systems in Flour Milling
Advanced Automation in Food Processing Plants
Automation systems and technologies are increasingly being integrated into areas that affect our everyday lives. When it comes to food processing for instance, there is no room for error, as quality of consumables is critical. At flour processing plants, this used to be an intensely difficult and challenging process. To obtain top rate product quality without automated systems means lots of hands on management. Constant checking is required at every stage, so that any problems can be identified and dealt with immediately.
Quality of the raw product as well as the efficiency of the process are critical if the best results are to be obtained. Monitoring and controlling of processing systems, along with energy saving technology are key.
Smooth Running of Processing Facilities
With automation systems, a vast amount of information can be collected from thousands of locations within a facility. If these systems were not automated, it would be virtually impossible for operators to keep on top of everything. Any issues would usually only be noticed when things had begun to malfunction. With systems that constantly monitor, many negative situations are avoided. These include things like machines being jammed by products etc, and machines overloading or breaking down.
Competition is fierce within the flour industry, so functioning and earning must continue during manufacturing. This highlights the importance of a good automation system to ensure processing facilities run smoothly.
Automated Systems Information & Communication
Large capacity manufacturers insist on a high level of automation, while many medium and small scale manufacturers continue to operate manually. Unfortunately this means that they could suffer increased financial loss, and product quality deterioration. Companies who use automation can expect the benefit of long lasting, exceptional quality systems. They can also rely on the knowledge and experience of the technical team who service the systems. These services are often very fast, and do not interrupt the manufacturing process.
Certain aspects of flour processing plants must use automation as standard, because manual monitoring is not practical. These systems have a range of functions in addition to monitoring, such as identifying and resolving potential problems. A more efficient and safer operation saves time and money, while being more sustainable.
Remotely Controlled Automation Using Smart Phones, Tablets & Computers
Another major advantage of these automated systems, is the fact that they can be controlled remotely using smart phones, computers and tablets. As well as notification of failures, instructions, reports and updates can be recorded and communicated via these systems. Installing an automation system in some older facilities may be extremely difficult due to their design. It may however be possible if the mechanical infrastructure can be changed, and the automation system adapted.
When facilities are originally designed and installed, it’s wise to consider potential upgrading processes in the future. This would mean a swift and low cost installation where needed. There would also be less downtime which for a flour mill can be extremely expensive.