Cooperation

Bizerba x Schmalz: Vacuum technology at the end of the line

03/18/2024

| A major revolution is taking place in the dynamic world of meat processing – driven by innovative solutions and partnerships. Bizerba, a renowned expert in scales and systems technology, has introduced a pioneering initiative in a Spanish meat processing plant in cooperation with Schmalz, a leading supplier of vacuum technology. This partnership stands out for its focus on increasing efficiency and the targeted automation of specific processes and marks a significant step forward.

Innovative solution for meat processing

In an industry that is constantly facing the challenges of skills shortages and the need for increased productivity, Bizerba, a leading specialist in scales and equipment technology, has implemented an innovative solution for a Spanish meat processor in collaboration with Schmalz, an expert in vacuum technology. The project, which stands out for its high efficiency and the solution of specific automation problems, marks a significant advance in the automation of picking processes.

Increasing the pick rate with advanced vacuum technology

By using Schmalz's advanced vacuum technology, the pick rate has been increased to an impressive 96 picks per minute. This was made possible by the development of an end-of-line system that includes two handling robots, so-called case packers. These robots are equipped with smart vacuum systems that have been specially developed for handling meat products in plastic trays, which often present a challenge due to wrinkling in the sealing film.

Process reliability thanks to special suction pads

The project effectively addresses the problem of wrinkling, which has previously impaired the efficiency of automated packaging processes. The use of special suction pads ensures a reliable grip, even with irregular surfaces. This innovation makes it possible to pick products quickly and reliably and pack them in transport crates, significantly increasing the meat processor's output.

Flexibility and modularity of the system

Another advantage of the system is its flexibility and modularity. The system developed by Bizerba and Kilivations, a partner company specializing in lean automation solutions, can be quickly adapted to different product formats without the need for extensive retooling. 

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