Assured visibility in processes

Quality demand on food products is reaching an all-time high. Vega’s highly compatible design and standardised adjustment concept creates flexible application possibilities and allow for individual configuration.

Vega has expanded its product range to include a compact instrument series. Standard applications can be automated economically with the new compact pressure sensors and level switches. Integration into the system and adjustment are easy to carry out. In this performance class, multi-device connection options are also available, which supports the continuous improvement of production facilities.

The new Vegabar and Vegapoint instrument series is the answer to the growing demand for simple sensors with optimised variants that support efficient food production. This requires standardised products that are easy to use, but still cover all the basic hygiene requirements. It also calls for better networked products with easy connectivity to existing control systems and mobile devices.

A uniform standard extends through all areas of application. This applies to the fully hygienic adapter system – designed to be compatible with Vegabar pressure sensors, Vegapoint capacitive level switches and existing Vegaswing vibrating level switches. All new instruments are built to withstand intense CIP processes.

THE ACID TEST OF CIP CLEANING

CIP cleaning is one of the most necessary but time-consuming process steps. The ability to clean and sterilise systems quickly, through consistent hygiene standards and system design is non-negotiable. Vegabar and Vegapoint instruments can tolerate high temperatures without loss of function, and even cope with the combination of high temperature and long exposure times.

HYGIENIC DESIGN DOWN TO THE LAST DETAIL

Surfaces of Vegabar 29 and 39 sensors that encounter the product are made of stainless steel and feature optimal surface roughness values. Vegabar 28 and 38 are available with high-strength ceramic versions and Vegapoint sensors in highly resistant PEEK material.

All materials are approved and tested to FDA and EC 1935/2004. The design of the instruments is certified to the European EHEDG Directive and the North American 3-A Sanitary Standards. Both standards prescribe the use of corrosion-resistant materials, and components are also designed in accordance with good manufacturing practices (GMP) regulations so that all micro-organisms are reliably removed by cleaning and cannot multiply on surfaces or in gaps.

To ensure that the status of a process can be recognised at a glance, the development of the new sensors focus on simple handling – and the fast and easy readability that comes along with it. Thanks to the round, 360° display, switching states can be visually detected from any direction.

Vega extends its sensor portfolio for food production

FIT FOR THE FUTURE WITH IO-LINK

During maintenance, plant operators rely on status data, which forms the basis for optimal planning of shutdown times.

Almost all system builders now implement intelligent sensors with IO technology as it offers universal advantages when it comes to data availability. Not only can these be quickly and cost-effectively installed using standard three-core cable, but, with IOLink, sensors can also be replaced easily and without the risk of errors.

The system can be put into operation correspondingly faster with the standard protocol, which reduces production downtime considerably.

The option of having all sensor parameters written automatically into the new instrument by the IOLink master or the controller during a replacement also makes for additional efficiency. Fast format or recipe changes, which are typical in the food industry today, can be carried out quickly and centrally in this way.

WIRELESS TRANSMISSION OF MEASURED VALUES

The Vegabar and Vegapoint instrument series can be easily read out and configured with a smartphone or tablet. Especially in environments such as clean rooms, where physical access involves a lot of effort, it means setup and operation become considerably faster and easier. In combination with the Vega Tools app, which has already won an App Award, the sensor data enquiry over shorter distances in these areas also becomes convenient.

Vega – www.vega.com