Mettler-Toledo launches new hygienic checkweigher for dairy

Manufactured by subsidiary Mettler-Toledo Hi-Speed, the new Cornerstone checkweigher can weigh 250 articles per minute and delivers top level accuracy for up to 6kg to help processors reduce waste and protect profits.

Mettler-Toledo said one of the key selling points of the system is that it is rated to IP69K, and is also USDA accepted and follows AMI design guidelines.

A company spokesperson said: “We believe this is the only checkweigher or combination checkweigher-metal detection system on the market with these features.”​

The new checkweigher uses Mettler-Toledo patented Electromagnetic Force Restoration (EMFR) technology. This, the company claims, ensures sustained accuracy over long periods of time and minimises weighing errors caused by changes in temperature and mechanical vibration.

Hygiene ​

In terms of hygiene, the stainless steel constructed machine is built to withstand the high pressure cleaning needed when processing dairy products like cheese, ice cream bars, milk and processed meats. The system is also suitable for both clean-in-place (CIP) or clean-out-of-place (COP) systems.

All the product contact areas on the checkweigher are corrosion-resistant, non-toxic and non-absorbent, and all non-product areas on the machine are designed to prevent the build up of debris and reservoirs of bacteria.

For added food safety protection the Cornerstone checkweigher can also be integrated with a Mettler-Toledo Safeline metal detector. Mettler-Toledo claims the detector can reliably identify and automatically reject all types of metal contaminants.

Design ​

Regarding the design of the new Cornerstone checkweigher Mettler-Toledo underlined its flexibility and durability.

“A central support spine used for mounting interchangeable belts provides a stable, sturdy, and robust frame for years of reliable service requiring virtually no maintenance beyond cleaning. The modular construction accommodates nearly any combination of conveyor lengths, widths, and line heights.”​​

The machine also features easy to clean snap-out conveyors and quick to disconnect servo motors for easier belt changeovers, cleaning and maintenance. Operators use a 15” color touch screen controller that Mettler-Toledo says makes product setup and changeover fast and simple.

The system can be easily connected to plant-wide networks using Ethernet, PLC, OPC, or serial connectivity. Once fully integrated, the checkweigher can be used to control upstream processors, correcting filling errors by providing automatic, real-time feedback to fillers.

Mettler-Toledo is a global supplier of precision instruments that serves industries including food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, chemical and personal care