Lock Inspection Systems' 3f triple frequency detector for food processing applications will be making its first appearance at Anuga Foodtec this year. The Triple frequency detection is the latest in several hi-tech features introduced by Lock to heighten the performance of the MET 30+ detector.
A second feature, the touchscreen, allows diagnostic software data to be viewed from the detector, so the user can identify problem areas and adjust settings to enhance sensitivity at the touch of a button.
The MET 30+ 3f detector operates at three crystal frequencies - low, medium and high. The detector's Automatic Frequency Selection facility will choose the optimum frequency for the application in hand. For example, when inspecting dry biscuits the detector will automatically select high frequency, whereas for a product wrapped in metallised film it will operate at low frequency. According to Lock, the user is assured that the detector's microprocessors will optimise the settings - whatever the product or packaging.
Other machines on show from Lock's MET 30+ range will include the Waferthin, Pipeline and Horizontal units. The Waferthin can be slotted neatly into packaging systems which incorporate multihead weighers feeding vertical form, fill and seal bagmakers. Its slim design enables installation in the high-speed integrated packaging systems that are becoming increasingly popular in the snack food and confectionery industries. Lock says that a 'compact' model is now available which is 25 per cent smaller than the standard Waferthin unit.
Combining uniquely developed electronics and rugged construction, the MET 30+ Pipeline is designed to withstand the aggressive cleaning conditions encountered in wet food applications, where the use of abrasive chemicals and high temperatures is common. The MET 30+ Pipeline detects and rejects all types of metallic contaminant in pumped products such as jams, sauces, fruit juices, soup, sausage meat, cheese and any other fluid products. The whole unit is fully waterproof and sealed to IP66 and its modular construction is said to simplify servicing.
Lock says that all the detectors in its MET 30+ range can be fitted with a touchscreen control panel and all MET 30+ Horizontal detectors are available with triple frequency technology.
Lock Inspection Systems is a leader in supplying metal detection and conveyor systems to food industry sectors spanning confectionery, snack, bakery, ready meals and meat and poultry. Headquartered in the UK, with offices in France, the Netherlands and the USA, Lock has a global network of distributors and high calibre maintenance and research teams. In Germany, Lock is represented by its partner, Florin GmbH.