Automated production process control
Sequential control: In food processing production lines, there is a series of strict processing sequences. For example, in the process of bread making, the PLC control cabinet can control the sequence of flour conveying, mixing, fermentation, baking and other processes. Through precise programming, the PLC can ensure that each step starts and ends in sequence according to the set time and conditions. For example, the fermentation program will only be started when the mixing reaches a certain time and degree to avoid confusion in the production process.
Coordinate the operation of multiple equipment: Food processing usually involves multiple equipment working together. Taking the beverage filling production line as an example, the PLC control cabinet can coordinate the operation of equipment such as filling machines, labeling machines, and packaging machines. It can control the start, stop and speed adjustment of each device according to the requirements of production speed, so that all links of the entire production line can cooperate closely and improve production efficiency. For example, when the filling speed of the filling machine changes, the PLC can adjust the speed of the labeling machine and the packaging machine in time to ensure that the product can complete the subsequent processing smoothly.
Precise processing parameter control
Temperature control: In food processing, many links have extremely high temperature requirements. For example, in chocolate production, the PLC control cabinet can be connected to a temperature sensor to monitor and control the temperature of the heating equipment in real time. It can accurately control the temperature within a specific range according to the characteristics of the chocolate raw materials and the production process requirements. For example, in the refining stage of chocolate, the temperature is controlled between 45-55℃ to ensure the taste and quality of chocolate.
Speed control: For conveyor belts, stirring equipment, etc. in food processing, the PLC control cabinet can achieve precise speed control. In quick-frozen food processing, the speed of the quick-freezing conveyor belt directly affects the quick-freezing effect of the product. PLC can adjust the speed of the conveyor belt according to the type of product and quick-freezing requirements to ensure that the food can pass through the quick-freezing area within the best time and achieve good quick-freezing quality.
Pressure control: In some food processing processes, such as the sealing process of canned food, pressure control is crucial. The PLC control cabinet can control the pressure of the sealing equipment to ensure that the cans are well sealed and prevent food from spoiling. It can be connected to a pressure sensor to monitor the pressure value in real time and adjust it according to the set value to keep the sealing pressure at an appropriate level.
Quality inspection and guarantee
Product size and weight inspection: PLC control cabinet can be connected to the inspection equipment for the inspection of food product size and weight. In biscuit production, by connecting the photoelectric sensor and the weight sensor, PLC can obtain the size and weight information of biscuits in real time. If the product size does not meet the specifications or the weight exceeds the allowable range, PLC can control the corresponding equipment to remove the unqualified products to ensure the consistency of product quality.
Ingredient detection and ratio control: For some mixed food processing, PLC control cabinet can control the ratio of raw materials. For example, in the production of juice drinks, PLC can accurately control the addition amount of various juice raw materials, additives and water according to the formula requirements. At the same time, it can also cooperate with the ingredient detection equipment to monitor in real time whether the ingredients of the beverage meet the standards, such as sugar content, acidity, etc., to ensure that the product quality meets the requirements.
Fault monitoring and safety protection
Equipment fault monitoring: PLC control cabinet can monitor the operating status of food processing equipment in real time. By connecting various sensors on the equipment, such as current sensors, vibration sensors, etc., it can detect abnormal conditions of the equipment in time. For example, when the motor in food processing is overloaded, overcurrent or vibrates abnormally, the PLC can quickly detect these fault signals and issue an alarm, and take corresponding protective measures, such as stopping the operation of the faulty equipment to avoid further damage to the equipment.
Safety protection function: In the food processing production environment, safety is of vital importance. The PLC control cabinet can cooperate with safety equipment such as safety doors and light curtains. When the operator enters the dangerous area or the safety equipment is triggered, the PLC can immediately stop the operation of the relevant equipment to prevent accidents. For example, in meat processing equipment, when the safety protection door is opened, the PLC will control the cutting equipment and other dangerous machinery to stop working immediately to ensure the personal safety of the operator.
Data recording and traceability
Production data recording: The PLC control cabinet can record various data in the food processing process, such as processing time, temperature, pressure, speed and other parameters. These data can be stored in the internal memory of the PLC or in an external storage device. By analyzing these data, the production process can be optimized and the product quality can be improved. For example, by analyzing the baking temperature and time data of different batches of bread, the best baking process parameters can be found.
Product traceability: As food safety is increasingly valued, product traceability is very important. The production data recorded by the PLC control cabinet can provide detailed information for product traceability. When food safety problems occur, these data can be used to trace the production batch, processing equipment, processing time and other information of the product, quickly locate the root cause of the problem, and take effective solutions.
