New Raptor Flex provides food processors with a fast-delivery, compact, economical and automated end of line checkweigher.
Fortress Technology has launched a compact, economical, automated checkweigher system. The Raptor Flex specifically helps food processors seeking immediate giveaway savings on packs weighing up to 4kg.
Addressing a significant market need, the Raptor Flex delivers affordable yet precise automated checkweighing for SME food processors that don’t want to compromise on performance. This includes confectionery, bakery products, cooked meats and nutrition bars.
A modular, standalone checkweigher for packaged products, the Raptor Flex is installed at the end of inspection lines to reduce product giveaway and ensure compliance with weight regulations.
One of the standout features of the Raptor Flex checkweigher is its fast delivery schedule. By offering a range of standard machine sizes and configurations, Fortress Technology can streamline production. Additionally, the entire system, including reporting and connectivity software, is all manufactured in-house.
“This quick turnaround helps food processors to promptly upgrade or adapt their quality control processes, supporting operational efficiency and responsiveness to market demands,” highlights Fortress Technology European Sales Director Phil Brown.
Compact and made from robust stainless steel, the Raptor Flex can fit easily into existing HACCP inspection lines. Featuring two wipe-clean, lift-out conveyors, the Raptor Flex delivers high-speed weighing up to 200 ppm.
Flexible input/output (I/O) electronics support rapid installation and integration with Fortress Technology metal detector and x-ray systems. Additionally, the Raptor Flex can be programmed to provide trend feedback to automated upstream filling, portioning and packing systems.
Equipped with a 10.1-inch (25.5cm) colour HMI touchscreen, the system supports intuitive operation and enhances overall operational efficiency. A top-mounted status beacon is visible from every angle to instantly alert production staff to operational issues. The clear presentation of live performance data, batch statistics and KPIs can support these investigations and identify upstream inefficiencies to ensure product quality is maintained.
Incorporating 500 pre-programmed product categories reduces set up and training times, while the secure multi-level password system prevents operators from overriding instructions. These features all minimise human errors which can cause production bottlenecks.
Batch reports can be collected by USB or automated using Contact 4.0 to enhance real-time traceability. Additionally, the Raptor Flex provides flexible options for networked data integration. Processors with more advanced connectivity needs can utilise optional OPC UA and Ethernet/IP Communication Adapters, supporting real-time data sharing across the entire production network.
For complete production flexibility, processors can select from three conveyor widths – 100mm, 200mm and 300mm – and multiple reject station options, including air blast, diverter paddles and kickers. To maintain the competitive price point, lift off covers are also optional.
"With its rapid lead time and adaptable configuration options, the Raptor Flex delivers an ideal solution for processors seeking to enhance their quality control measures while maintaining operational agility and meeting tight production deadlines,” concludes Phil.