A recent study from Research and Markets revealed that the
value of the food and beverage sector is forecast to reach £113.1 billion in
2018-19, a short to medium-term growth of 3-4%. In order to maintain this
performance, the industry must continue its drive towards greater efficiency
and productivity.
A typical food and drink production facility contains electric motor-driven
equipment such as mixers, conveyors and pumps to name just a few. With motors
accounting for 65% of all industrial electricity consumption, the scope for
savings is huge. Here we’ll look at a couple of ways this can be achieved.
Condition monitoring
A condition monitoring programme allows process managers to
observe and analyse levels of motor vibration, balance, lubricant and
temperature and plan preventative maintenance during shutdown periods. This
proactive approach avoids unplanned downtime which can cost hundreds of
thousands of pounds per day in lost production. There’s also the added benefit
of reducing wear and extending equipment life.
Variable-speed drives
Being able to control the speed of mixers, pumps and
conveyors without manual intervention allows users to maximise productivity
while optimising efficiency and keeping energy consumption to a minimum.
Variable-speed
drives allow motors to run at only the speed required at a given time,
which is especially useful for mixing applications where different products
require varying degrees of speed. Mixing ingredients at the wrong speed has an
adverse effect on the finished product; dough, for example, must be handled
correctly to achieve the desired result.
In addition, equipment that is used for multiple purposes
can be prepared for different products simply by selecting a programme via the
variable-speed drive, removing the need manual adjustment.
Gibbons Engineering Group have a long history of working
within the food and beverage sector, so we’re well aware of its unique demands.
We not only carry out a comprehensive condition monitoring service, we’re also
an Authorized Value Provider for ABB drives.
This means we’re approved to stock, distribute and offer local value-added
support for ABB variable-speed drives.
We’ve helped many high-profile businesses in the food and
beverage industry improve their processes, and we could do the same for you. For
more information on our products and services for the food and beverage sector,
call 01621 868138 or email info@gibbonsgroup.co.uk.
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