Dairy processors demand that inspection system manufactures follow strict guidelines for construction and performance.  Accordingly, the inspection system will be constructed of stainless steel, have continuous welds and be free of cracks and crevices which inhibits bacteria growth. The system must also withstand rigorous wash-down.  

Moreover, the systems must be easily disassembled for cleaning whether in a pipeline or conveyor production line.  For example, a pipeline system would use quick-connect sanitary connectors to fasten the non-metallic pipe section through the detector.  For conveyor belt applications, the conveyor belt will need to be removed easily without being cut.  In both scenarios it is desirable for both types to be manufactured to CIP standards.              

As for concerns, performance is most often cited as the number one requirement.  This would include excellent foreign object detection, reliability and low emissions (X-ray).  A very close second is how well supported the systems are in terms of service and spare parts.  

Moreover, processors want to keep their product pure and they have continued to do so.  In fact, consumers should feel very good about the food, pharmaceuticals and beverages that are made here in the US as stringent food safety policies abound in the largest of corporation to the small ma and pa shops. Will mistakes be made? Of course, however as evidenced by the infrequency of contamination in food products (compared the staggering volume of food being processed) is a testimony to their commitment.  

To help these processors meet food safety requirements, inspection systems must be easy to operate, do what they are intended to do, have data collection capability, not disrupt production with false detection and capable of networking with mainframes. These functions/features are a must.  

So what is on the horizon for inspection systems?  We will continue to make our systems easier to use and compatible with mainframes.  We are also working with plastic manufacturing to develop detectable plastics used for belting, liners, flights, etc.  This will make our systems even more versatile.