Automation
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Automation Series

How to get the most out of sensors

Processors can get more out of sensing technology than ever, but only if they do their due diligence.

August 1, 2018

Sensors can help ensure that automated processes are working correctly, provide feedback on production and improve quality control efforts. But food processors have to be sure that they understand what they need to do to get the most out of their sensing technology.

Maintenance

TPM, integrating maintenance systems and the cloud

Total productive maintenance takes PM to the next level, while integrating CMMS, EAM and ERP systems increases the level of performance of maintenance activities

Wayne Labs

July 23, 2018

In Part one of this article, published in the July 2018 issue of Food Engineering, we looked at the costs of reactive maintenance strategies, preventive maintenance (PM), risk-based PM strategies—and whether any form of PM could provide the depth-of-maintenance knowledge as that of a predictive maintenance (PdM) system. In the second part of this article, we’ll look at TPM, integrating CMMS and EAM systems with ERP systems, training and manpower issues and IIoT integration.

Engineering R&D

Easing the automation update process

It’s time to update your control system—both for security and performance improvements—but prayer shouldn’t be necessary for success.

Wayne Labs

July 16, 2018

You probably don't have to think back too far to realize how tedious it was updating your automation software for PLCs, PACs, smart sensors or industrial network devices.

Automation Series

New tools offer options for preventive maintenance

Today’s computerized maintenance management systems and enterprise asset management systems take the drudgery out of keeping track of service records, replacement parts and breakdowns.

Wayne Labs

July 11, 2018

Most machine builders supply PM schedules for the equipment they build. But managing a large number of machines—all with their own PM cycles—is no picnic.

2018 Food Automation & Manufacturing Conference and Expo

Speakers shared insights on automation and the state of the food manufacturing industry

Wayne Labs

Crystal Lindell Debra Schug

July 9, 2018

One of the main purposes of FA&M is to explore the future of food processing and what food and beverage companies are doing now to position themselves well for the next few years.

Editor's Note

Food Engineering's new editor-in-chief on embracing change

Industry faces challenges and obstacles, but embracing change provides exciting opportunities

July 2, 2018

We’re undergoing some changes here at Food Engineering.

Automation

Opinion: Now is the time to digitally transform F&B manufacturing

IIoT and hybrid/cloud deployment models are accelerating change

Keith Chambers

June 25, 2018

In April, I presented a case for why digital transformation in the Food & Beverage industry has now come of age. Food Engineering hosted their Food Automation & Manufacturing conference in Bonita Springs, Florida. Industry leaders gathered to explore the latest trends and technologies in manufacturing, automation, sustainability and food safety. Leading brands like Maple Leaf, PepsiCo and Land O’ Frost shared strategies on driving innovation and sustainability through digital transformation strategies.

Editor's Note

Digitalization doesn’t just mean technological changes

There is a major paradigm shift happening, not just in food and beverage, but in practically every industry.

Debra Schug

June 11, 2018

If there is one thing you need to know now about the digital revolution, it is that it is much more than merely purchasing new equipment, software or services.

Automation Series

Integrating process control and building automation systems

If your systems communicate with each other, you may save money on energy, improve quality and enhance food safety.

Wayne Labs

May 21, 2018

You don’t want to be fighting your plant’s operating environment. You want it under control—not only for maintaining product quality and consistency, but also food safety.

Industry 4.0’s impact on the food and beverage industry

Tetra Pak discusses why food and beverage manufacturers should be seriously looking at adopting new technology in their plants.

Debra Schug

April 27, 2018

Tetra Pak recently hosted a webinar on Industry 4.0 and explained why it sees a tremendous opportunity Industry 4.0 poses to the food and beverage industry, including increased vigilance over food safety, improved productivity, improved quality assurance and a greater ability to manage complex global supply chains.

Join Lynn Dornblaser, Client Advisor at Mintel, and Alyse Thompson-Richards, Editor-in-Chief of FOOD ENGINEERING, as they break down the 2026 Top 100 Food and Beverage Companies and discuss the factors affecting this year’s rankings.

Explore food safety strategies that strengthen sanitation, risk management, operational efficiency, and compliance across foodservice and facility environments.