PRODUCTION
© Ashworth
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Real-time is the right time Every aspect of the process and its related equipment is closely analyzed to identify new ways of increasing efficiency. When proofing, cooling and freezing bakery goods, this means constant monitoring to prevent unplanned downtimes. For this, smart tools are the key.
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A versatile piece of equipment that can be used for all processes requiring controlled temperatures is the spiral. For this technology, Ashworth developed the SmartSpiral® Monitoring System, an application that provides real-time monitoring of multiple spirals, even over different facilities. It manages maintenance to identify performance issues, prevent failures, consequently minimizing downtimes and service.
calculated, the 3 sigma limits are noted on the graphical displays,” he adds. Moreover, performance parameters are defined within preset limits, to trigger warnings when parameters are outside of these presets. When it encounters deviations, the system automatically sends a notification as soon as an alarm is registered. Data is recorded and analyzed for such ‘alarms,’ which are saved for an evaluation of the overall status of the system. Data is monitored for the bottom bearing, the cage drive, the outfeed drive, temperature, and belt tension. Sensors can also be added and monitored based on specific process requirements. In addition, up to three more sensors can be added to the system, upon request.
The system is designed to monitor parameters that are difficult to monitor in harsh environments, such as a freezer during operations or a bottom bearing on a Lotension spiral cage, for example. The SmartSpiral ® monitors trends over time as well as instantaneous changes. Various kinds of data can be obtained and managed The evolution of the trend graphs indicates with the SmartSpiral® , depending on the the health of the system. Trend data is system and its requirements. “Every system graphically available on the connected is unique, so we establish a baseline for smart devices to monitor the system’s Follow the QR-Code to watch each monitored parameter as a step of the operation in minute detail, to maintain/ the video installation,” explains Chris Trinch, Senior increase process efficiency and to identify Product Engineer for Ashworth. Data is areas that may require adjustments or continuously collected, with a data point established every intervention. As it monitors basic parameters, the Smartthree minutes. These data points are used to establish Spiral ® uses the data to create an image of the entire system’s performance which becomes the backbone of predictive trend graphs. “Over time, the system calculates SPC data to maintenance. provide +/- 3 sigma ranges for all monitored sensors. Once
www.bakingbiscuit.com 06/2021
