Track technology: Leaving traditional production lines behind

Intelligent track systems play an essential role in getting products to market faster and helping producers remain competitive

On bottling and primary packaging lines, direct contact between the machine and the things we put on our kitchen table is inevitable. That's why these processes are subjected to the absolute highest hygiene standards – and it's also why any equipment used must lend itself to easy and thorough cleaning. These requirements often present a stumbling block for innovative new solutions.

Production and packaging machinery used in the food and beverage industry must not only be easy to clean but also highly resistant to aggressive substances. Powerful cleaning agents and scalding hot water are extremely effective at killing bacteria and germs – but over time can take their toll on machine components. These challenges are further compounded as the individualization trend gains momentum in the food and beverage industry. Machine builders and operators are under pressure to produce goods efficiently in small batch sizes.

Consumers have shown a willingness to pay a premium for personalized products, explains Johannes Vitzthum, product manager for track technology at B&R. And food and beverages are no exception. The real implementation of mass customization, however, has generally been hindered by one core fact that applies in every industry: Whenever you increase a system's flexibility, you generally decrease its overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Producers run the very real risk that individualization will come at the cost of profitability, says Vitzthum.

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