Detecting metal in meat with meatLINE™

The meatLINE™ Metal Separator for vacuum fillers has been launched by Bunting Magnetics Europe Ltd to provide processors with a solution to the problem of metal contamination in meat slurries and pastes.

The meatLINE™ series of Electronic Metal Separators removes metallic contaminants from liquids, slurries and highly viscous foods automatically, without interruption of the process and can be adapted to almost any vacuum filler with specific adapters.  The Metal Metal-free product passes through the detector and when a metallic contaminant is detected, identified by a change in the high frequency magnetic field, the contaminated material is rejected.

The rejection system comprises of a reject gate cylinder driven by a solenoid activated when the metal is detected and an impulse is generated by the system.  Product loss is minimised due to the rapid diversion of the product stream.  The reject time (ie the dwell time of the reject gate) is adjustable and can be extended by the pre-programmed time interval should several metal particles pass through within the given time frame.  After the metal particle has been successfully rejected, the gate returns automatically to the normal position.

One of the key design features of the meatLINE Metal Separator is focused on reliability and the Separator is equipped with an expanded system monitor.  This not only controls the basic electronic functions, but also monitors the movement of the reject valve.  Any faults are immediately identified and an alarm is raised accordingly.

The design of the meatLINE™ Metal Separator incorporates a rugged frame that aids and protects during transportation.  The no-tilt chassis sits on 4 (four) height adjustable steerable casters with locking brakes and a cover protects the faceplate from any high pressure cleaners, sealing the electronics cabinet against water intrusion.

An integrated wash basket provides storage facilities for any loose parts during cleaning of the reject system and a stainless steel chain secures the mechanical parts for added security.  A spindle drive allows for fast and precise operating height adjustment and the two cables connected to the unit are easily disconnected keeping the set-up time to a minimum.  For safety, all components are burst proof up to 450 psi (30 BAR).

The meatLINE™ Metal Detector is capable of detecting ferrous metal, stainless steel, aluminium, copper and brass.  Typical spherical sizes of metal that can be detected are as follows:

Ferrous metal – Ø 0.8 – 1.2mm

Non-Ferrous metal – Ø 1.5 – 2.0mm

Stainless steel – Ø 2.5 – 3.0mm

Detection of these sizes of metals has been achieved under production conditions using various sausage recipes.  The size of metal that can be detected in a specific application can be assessed with tests at Bunting’s European Manufacturing and Test facility in Berkhamsted, UK.

MeatLINE Metal Separators have been approved by the British Retail Consortium, the SQF Institute and the International Food Standards (IFS),

Bunting Magnetics Europe Ltd is a global designer, manufacturer and supplier of Metal Detectors, Metal Separators and Magnets.

For more information on the products or application mentioned in this press release please contact Paul Fears on 07909 103789 or [email protected] or visit www.buntingeurope.com.