Food Processing Equipment

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A wide range of instruments, gages, machinery and equipment is used in the food processing industry. In many cases, this equipment must meet vigorous quality standards to ensure manufacturers meet proper food handling procedures. Generally, equipment used in food processing applications serves one of the following purposes: measurement, preparation, storage, packaging or cooking.

Measurement devices include scales and weighing systems, thermometers, pressure gages, timers and other precision control components. These instruments are used to analyze ingredients and machines, and to allow manufacturers to perform and duplicate processing procedures without complications. They are also used to monitor existing systems and machinery, whether to log data during product testing or to quantify typical performance statistics. Measurement devices are particularly important during food manufacture, as minor changes in cooking temperature, ingredient ratios and operation times can lead to drastic changes in the finished product.

Preparation and cooking equipment includes conveyor systems, ovens, dispensing machines, mixing and cutting machines, and transport hoses, pipes and tubes. Each food preparation facility is unique, and many preparation systems are custom designed for the required application. However, a wide variety of standard systems are incorporated into the final design, allowing manufacturers to minimize the expense of full-scale customization. Preparation and cooking components require regular maintenance and cleaning to meet accepted industry standards.

Storage and packaging equipment used for the food industry ranges from simple plastic wrapping to vacuum sealing and bottling. Freezers, coolers and chillers help maintain delicate ingredients and temperature sensitive products for future use or sale. Various sealing and packing techniques are used by manufacturers, including shrink wrap, tamper-proof caps, air-tight bags and cardboard boxes. Pallets, racks, bins and drums are also available for large shipments.