We don’t tend to think about the fundamental technology which forms the foundation for our food industry. We just expect the barista to produce a coffee within a decent time, the kebab shop to provide fully cooked meat and the kids just want their candy floss at the beach. But none of these popular food items could be produced in the manner in which we are used to without the use of robust electric motors.
Of course, there are numerous applications within the food industry for
DC motors including;
- Grills (commercial and roller)
- Popcorn machines
- Ice making machines
- Conveyer equipment (e.g. ovens, toasters)
- Food packaging processes
- Slicing machines
- Hot beverage machines
- Kebab turners
- Candy floss machines
This list only provides a small sample of the applications, with many aspects of commercial kitchens and food preparation factories now powered in some way by DC and AC motors. Within each of these applications, there is a complex process led by the motor. For example:
Kebab Turners – Motors are used to rotate the skewers, slowly and regularly ensuring the meat is evenly cooked. These motors need to produce a consistent rotational speed and need to be able to work in hot, greasy environments for long periods of time.
Candy Floss Machines – Candy floss machines are pieces of complex equipment, despite appearances, and the motors are responsible for spinning and heating the sugar to create the candy floss head. It’s important to have control of the machine to ensure consistency in the texture of the final product.
Hot Beverage Machines – Within hot beverage machines, which provide those much-anticipated caffeine boosts, lie motors pumping the water, mixing ingredients and frothing the milk. These motors have to be precisely controlled, in order to guarantee the same quality of beverage is produced every single time.
Each machine powered by a motor used in the food industry has its own requirement
s regarding speed and torque in order to drive each specific function. At Parvalux, we can create a custom solution in line with exactly what the customer needs.
Challenges Of Using Motors In The Food Industry
There are potentially more challenges related to motors which end up being used in the food industry than in other industries. These include:
- Regulations – Within the food industry there are a number of regulations which need to be adhered to, meaning motors need to be compliant with all relevant standards and certifications. Parvalux works with customers to ensure all possible motor-impacted regulations are considered.
- Sanitization – All machinery in the food industry must be easy to clean and therefore motors which are exposed to liquids or food need to be robust enough to withstand regular cleaning. Parvalux motors and gearboxes are built to last in various conditions to minimize maintenance needs.
- Hygiene – in order to prevent contamination of consumables, motors should be enclosed whenever possible, not only to protect the food but also to protect the motor from damage. Parvalux can provide enclosed motors and gearboxes when required.
- Temperature Control – Many motors within the food industry have to work under extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and therefore need to be robust enough to function in both without malfunctioning. Parvalux components can operate in extreme cold and warm conditions to ensure the longevity of Parvalux products.
- Easy Maintenance – Motors which are used for long periods in challenging environments can suffer with wear and tear. In order to reduce downtime the motors should be easy to maintain, repair and replace if necessary. Parvalux Brushless motors are maintenance-free and can easily be replaced when needed.
- Size Limitations – Much machinery within the food industry needs to be compact and lightweight, maybe even portable (e.g. candy floss or popcorn machines) and the motors need to fit within a small size envelope. The Parvalux range comes in all shapes and sizes, and the custom solutions provided for our customers fit perfectly into their design.
- Product Development Timelines – The food industry is developing at a rapid pace, with consumer preferences, dietary trends and regulations constantly changing. This means that OEMs have to reduce product development times to keep up with the industry. Parvalux can provide drop-in replacements for many applications to make life a lot easier for a design engineer.
Of course, in addition to the specific challenges associated with the food industry, there are general challenges with motor development which include noise control to ensure they are as quiet running as possible, energy efficient and durable.
At Parvalux, we have a range of motors which can be used off the shelf or can be partially or fully customized. If you would like to find out more about the range of motors Parvalux have, please head to the
product pages here. For more information about the food industry and how we can help you please
get in contact with our team.
