Loma launches X-ray inspection system

Loma has released its latest X-ray system, the X4. X-ray systems are becoming increasingly popular as the top choice of inspection system due to their ability to reliably and efficiently perform the multiple functions of separate 'traditional' inspection systems simultaneously, Loma says.

Featuring a high speed USB sensor and Windows XP operating system, all models have a touch screen display available in a variety of languages. The X4 is available in belt widths ranging from 300mm to 600mm, with apertures heights to 250mm, meaning it has the flexibility to work effectively on a wide variety of production lines. Product setup is an automated process and can be accomplished with minimal operator training. The machine has the ability to hold thousands of product memories, and product change-over and set up are simplified with the addition of an optional bar code reader.

Its advanced image processing and ability to detect other product defects such as component count, zone mass measurement and shape conformity, are all available within the standard package. Reject systems will also provide separate reject signals for each type of non-conformity so that contaminated and improperly packaged products can be kept separate.

The main advantages an X-ray machine has over metal-detectors are its capacity to detect non-metallic materials and ability to work with products and packaging materials that metal detectors find difficult.

The EU now requires all food businesses to implement a documented food safety management system based on the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and leading European supermarkets are driving through X-ray inspection as a 'Code of Practice' for foil or metallised product packaging, meaning reliable and more sensitive X-ray technology is increasingly in demand, Loma says.