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HAPPY NEW YEAR! ... EIN GUTES NEUES JAHR! ... BONNE ANNÉE! ... FELIZ AÑO NUEVO! ... GELUKKIG NIEUWJAAR! |
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Find out how Loma ended 2003 with official recognition of its progress in lean manufacturing techniques when UK Member of Parliament Jacqui Smith visited the Farnborough operation. Productivity has improved by 25% and lead times have been slashed to 3 weeks since starting the programme. |
 Visit from the Minister of State for Industry & the Regions |
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To kick off the New Year, Loma is offering customers the best deal on its AS1200C checkweigher. The Loma AS 1200C Checkweigher is an entry-level machine designed specifically for dry environments where space is at a premium. The AS 1200C is ideal for average weights measuring up to 1.2kg / 2.65 lbs. |
 AS1200C |
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Loma's X-Ray portfolio has been further enhanced with the launch of two new machines: |
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SnaX³ - specifically designed for the snack food industry and cereal producers. This high-speed system has been designed to provide cost-effective contamination detection for a wide range of low-density products and is ideal for multi-product applications where bagged produce is collected into boxes ready for transportation, such as crisps. SnaX³ eliminates the need for individual inspection systems on each line. |
 SnaX³ |
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X³ Pipeline - tailored to products that are transported through pipes, such as meats, pastes, dairy products, soups and sauces. The use of special filtering techniques enhances detection abilities, even for contaminants with low-density characteristics such as calcified bone. |
 X³ Pipeline |
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A processing and packaging plant in Cornwall, UK has increased its line speeds by 60% and significantly cut breakdowns, thanks to Loma equipment. St Merryn Meats opted for an AS Combo combined checkweigher and metal detector fitted with the Loma OnLine data management package. |
 AS Combo |
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We're delighted to announce the appointment of Ruud Gruijters as Sales
Director. Loma's German team has also been boosted by the addition of two service
engineers and a sales engineer, Markus Döbert, who will provide improved coverage
of the region and focus on Loma's growing German customer base. |
 Ruud Gruijters |
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Don't miss Loma on the global exhibition trail during Quarter 1 of 2004. Click on the links for full details of what Loma will be showcasing:
Jan 6-8 Westpack, Anaheim, Ca., USA - Packaging |
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The articles in full |
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In November 2003, Loma Systems received a visit from Jacqui Smith, Minister of State for Industry and the Regions in the UK. On a tour of the operation, Jacqui heard how Loma's adoption of the latest 'lean' manufacturing techniques has helped the company improve productivity by 25%. This was achieved with help from both the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South East (MAS) and EEF South, the Regional Centre of Manufacturing Excellence. " We operate in an extremely competitive environment where there is a constant focus on cost reduction and on process and production improvement," Loma Group Operations Director Mike Robinson told his invited audience. |
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"With help from the MAS and EEF South, we have been able to take considerable cost out of our business, we have realigned our supply base, invested in new component manufacture 'in-house' and introduced numerous 'lean' principles. All this has resulted in a 25% productivity gain and a reduction in lead times from 14 weeks to just three weeks or less." Ms Smith spent time touring the Loma factory and saw for herself the impact both of the company's investment in the latest technology and the effect of the various projects completed in collaboration with the MAS. Annie Pearson, MAS Principal Specialist, said that Loma demonstrated what could be achieved by empowering a workforce to implement and maintain a programme of continuous improvement. |
 Jacqui Smith visit |
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"At Loma, we helped to get the ball rolling and engage the workforce, but it was the company that maintained the initiative and is now reaping the benefits of implementing 'lean'."
The DTI-sponsored MAS is supported by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and run by the EEF South, the regional engineering employers' federation, in association with the Business Link network. |
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Loma Systems has extended its range of food inspection equipment by introducing a new X-ray unit specifically designed for the snack food industry and cereal producers. The new, high-speed SnaX³ system has been designed to provide cost-effective contamination detection for a wide range of low-density products - including those packaged in metalised film or foil. The ingenious end-of-line inspection unit is ideal for multi-product applications where bagged produce is collected into boxes ready for transportation, such as crisps. SnaX³ eliminates the need for individual inspection systems on each line, detecting a wide variety of contaminants, including metal, glass, stone and high-density plastics, in cases containing products from different production lines. It is also able to highlight flavour and sugar clumps in low density snack and cereal products. |
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In order to do this the SnaX³ system incorporates multi-layer image processing that instinctively adapts the system's scanning equipment to different foodstuff characteristics. The AutoTrack detection software calibrates the SnaX³ unit without the need for downtime, therefore dramatically reducing production-line changeovers and false rejections, and maximising operational efficiencies. The SnaX³ system is extremely sensitive to stainless steel - performing at a rate of 2,500 scans per second means there is no speed restriction on multi-product lines. A Windows NT operating system and modem link makes a range of networking and remote-access options achievable. As a result, the new SnaX³ system is as flexible as it is accurate. |
 SnaX³ |
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Alan Johnson, X-ray product manager at Loma, said the new SnaX³ system was yet another example of the groundbreaking technology emanating from Loma's expansive R+D programme. "It's important to stay ahead of the game, especially in a competitive market and that's why we invest so heavily in the latest technologies. The SnaX³ is a good example of this. It does the job that has been traditionally carried out by a number of freefall metal detectors and in most cases at less cost and disruption. It does this quickly and accurately, automatically adapting to different product types - regardless of their packaging." |
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Loma Systems has launched a new end-of-line inspection unit that simplifies contaminant detection in the most arduous of processing environments. The new X³ Pipeline System not only features a fully stainless steel construction, it also benefits from unique image-processing technology that automatically calibrates the system in accordance with different product densities, thereby maximising sensitivity. The new robust and extremely reliable X³ Pipeline System has been specifically designed for products that are transported through pipes, such as meats, pastes, diary products, soups and sauces. The use of special filtering techniques enhances detection abilities, even for contaminants with low-density characteristics such as calcified bone. |
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More importantly, the X³ Pipeline System features an AutoTrack image-processing function that automatically adapts the scanning equipment to different foodstuff densities. Product set-up and changeover times are therefore dramatically reduced, as are the number of false rejections. Regular testing is made easy by a method that removes the need to introduce samples into the pipe. The ingenious system is also highly versatile and incredibly accurate. A Dual Pentium 1.2GHz industry grade PC with expandable 20Gb hard drive, Windows NT operating system and modem link ensure a range of networking and remote-access options. Likewise, the system's 16-bit scaleable high-speed/high-gain array is three times more sensitive than many existing detectors and provides 2,500 scans per second, resulting in minimal product wastage within the rejected portions. |
 X³ Pipeline |
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Specifically designed to meet the demands of the food-processing industry and to exceed global radiation safety regulations, the new X³ Pipeline System is a practical and robust inspection unit that is extremely easy to use. For Alan Johnson, X-ray product manager at Loma, the new system re-enforces the company's reputation for developing advanced inspection technology.
He said: "The X³ Pipeline System is the culmination of an intensive R+D program that considered a number of aspects affecting the food-processing industry, such as brand protection and hygiene. The new model brings together a number of features that simplify the process of installing, cleaning and operating inspection equipment. As a result, it's at the cutting edge of X-ray design and illustrates Loma's commitment to developing end-of-line inspection equipment." |
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Key to St Merryn Meats's new automated processing lines are three integrated checkweigher and metal detector systems and a data management package supplied by Loma Systems. The state-of-the-art equipment has helped significantly cut breakdowns at the wholesalers and increase line speeds by 60%. The best in the business are always aiming to improve themselves. Be it in the form of new product ranges, better staff or refined production process, they share the common goal of raising the standards even higher. For St Merryn Meats that meant installing three new mince processing lines that would boost its turnaround to 700 tonnes a week. For the company's technical manager at its processing and packaging plant in Victoria, Cornwall, the upgrade was about speed and reliability. "The whole point of the project was to improve line speeds and cut downtime," says Richard Clatworthy, technical manager and group scales at St Merryn Meats. "With the new lines we can process a lot more product in a lot less time." |
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The wholesale meat processor supplies a number of high-street supermarkets with quality packaged meat products, ranging from standardised mince products to Tesco's Finest range. Key to its success is the company's commitment to continued improvement, most recently exemplified by the new automated packaging lines. Key to this latest self-improvement project were three fully integrated checkweigher and metal detector systems supplied by the end-of-line inspection specialist, Loma Systems. Richard explains that the AS Combo systems were commissioned as part of the new automated packaging lines in January 2002. He says the end-of-line inspection equipment provides a "due diligence check" on the 500g and 800g thermoform packs of mince and facilitates a run rate that is 60% quicker than the previous supplier's old system. |
 AS Combo |
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"Since Loma's all-in-one systems check 90 packs a minute, we have recorded a huge improvement in line speed compared to the old checkweighers, which could only manage 55 packs a minute," Richard notes. The compact AS units have an impressive range of operating performance, and are capable of running up to speeds of up to 400ppm. As well as being quick, the new machines are also incredibly reliable and have significantly slashed the number of breakdowns at the Cornish plant. Less downtime and quicker line speeds have had a huge impact on the business. "The whole system has given us a real push forward in terms of processability and quality of product," says Richard. "An important part of this has been the reliability we get from Loma's equipment." |
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Loma's AS Combo system combines a Loma IQ² metal detector and the Loma AS series checkweigher, which provide accurate weight measurements and sensitive metal detection. Built from robust stainless steel, the compact units incorporate high-powered, variable AC motors tailored for both speed and accuracy. At St Merryn Meats, the tough units are linked via Loma's data management software package, Loma OnLine, which Richard says provides the company with vital processing information. "Because we produce an average-weight product, we have to ensure that each pack contains a minimum weight. We factor in an excess tolerance of 15 grams; anything above that will be rejected. Loma's OnLine system provides us with detailed batch information relating to both underweight and overweight rejections. It also gives us accurate information about how much weight we're giving away, so we can improve the portioning process." |
 AS Combo |
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The windows-based system amalgamates weight and overfill data, presenting it in a format that is easy to understand. It can also be used as a real-time management tool, giving an instant overview of performance or historical data that can be used to identify weaknesses and initiate improvements. In this way, Loma OnLine reflects St Merryn Meats's ongoing search for excellence.
"Our name is based on quality, and on the quality products we produce," Richard concludes. "We like to be at the forefront of the latest technology that will help us continue to do that - that's why we opted for Loma." |
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January 28 -30 2004, Georgia World Congress Centre, Atlanta, USA
Loma Systems will be featuring its X³ line, the next generation of contamination detection equipment,
and Celsius-the industry's only non-destructive temperature measuring system. The X³ X-ray inspection
machines take detection and removal of contaminants to a new level. The Celsius temperature measurement
unit targets refrigerated foods. Its consistent accuracy to within ±0.2°C makes it superior to
other temperature sensing methods. Loma will also present its complete line of USDA approved
Harsh application metal detectors as well as introducing a new line of checkweighers for packaging
applications from the heavy duty "Combo" metal detector and checkweigher with standard stainless steel
construction and user friendly controls, to the lightweight AS 1200 policeman checkweigher for
end of line weight verification. |
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9-11 March, Rennes, France, Stand A 17/B 18, Hall 2 Loma Systems, the leading global manufacturer of checkweighers, metal detectors and X-ray systems, is inviting visitors to this year's CFIA to take a closer look at its comprehensive range of end-of-line inspection solutions. Chris Kaine, Product Director at Loma says, "Our systems offer the highest performance levels at competitive prices and are tailored to suit a broad range of applications."
Brand new X-ray technology
The powerful x-ray source allows the detection of minute contaminants including bone, rubber or plastic. Even products packaged in metal foil can be scanned. Neural Network Technology can provide sophisticated shape recognition either by zone or total pack, which enables the system to highlight product defects, missing items and under-filled packs. As with all Loma equipment, the Xe is future-proof and upgradable and can be networked with other systems on the shop floor. The user-friendly Windows environment requires minimal operator skills, but in the event of a breakdown, modem support is available from Loma experts for rapid on-line diagnostics.
Cost effective checkweighing
Loma's checkweigher offering is complimented by Loma OnLine, a total data management solution for companies with multiple checkweighers, which amalgamates weight and overfill data and presents it centrally. The windows-based solution can be installed on any model of Loma checkweigher, and will automatically recognise new products and set up the relevant database.
Tried and tested - IQ² metal detectors
Loma's metal detectors incorporate an easy to use Performance Validation System (PVS). PVS automates the HACCP regime by automatically prompting the operator to check the performance of the metal detector at pre-set intervals and provides proof that the system is operating at optimum sensitivity throughout a product batch. |
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14-17 March, NEC Birmingham, Stand 5517, Hall 5 Loma Systems, the leading global manufacturer of checkweighers, metal detectors and X-ray systems, is inviting visitors to this year's Foodex Meatex to take a closer look at its comprehensive range of end-of-line inspection solutions. Chris Kaine, Product Director at Loma says, "Our systems offer the highest performance levels at competitive prices and are tailored to suit a broad range of applications."
Brand new X-ray technology
The powerful x-ray source allows the detection of minute contaminants including bone, rubber or plastic. Even products packaged in metal foil can be scanned. Neural Network Technology can provide sophisticated shape recognition either by zone or total pack, which enables the system to highlight product defects, missing items and under-filled packs. As with all Loma equipment, the Xe is future-proof and upgradable and can be networked with other systems on the shop floor. The user-friendly Windows environment requires minimal operator skills, but in the event of a breakdown, modem support is available from Loma experts for rapid on-line diagnostics.
Cost effective checkweighing
Loma's checkweigher offering is complimented by Loma OnLine, a total data management solution for companies with multiple checkweighers, which amalgamates weight and overfill data and presents it centrally. The windows-based solution can be installed on any model of Loma checkweigher, and will automatically recognise new products and set up the relevant database.
Tried and tested - IQ² metal detectors
Loma's metal detectors incorporate an easy to use Performance Validation System (PVS). PVS automates the HACCP regime by automatically prompting the operator to check the performance of the metal detector at pre-set intervals and provides proof that the system is operating at optimum sensitivity throughout a product batch. |
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29 March - 1 April, NEC Birmingham, Stand 4145, Hall 4 Loma Systems, the leading global manufacturer of checkweighers, metal detectors and X-ray systems, is inviting visitors to this year's Total to take a closer look at its comprehensive range of end-of-line inspection solutions. Chris Kaine, Product Director at Loma says, "Our systems offer the highest performance levels at competitive prices and are tailored to suit a broad range of applications."
Brand new X-ray technology
The powerful x-ray source allows the detection of minute contaminants including bone, rubber or plastic. Even products packaged in metal foil can be scanned. Neural Network Technology can provide sophisticated shape recognition either by zone or total pack, which enables the system to highlight product defects, missing items and under-filled packs. As with all Loma equipment, the Xe is future-proof and upgradable and can be networked with other systems on the shop floor. The user-friendly Windows environment requires minimal operator skills, but in the event of a breakdown, modem support is available from Loma experts for rapid on-line diagnostics.
Cost effective checkweighing
Loma's checkweigher offering is complimented by Loma OnLine, a total data management solution for companies with multiple checkweighers, which amalgamates weight and overfill data and presents it centrally. The windows-based solution can be installed on any model of Loma checkweigher, and will automatically recognise new products and set up the relevant database.
Tried and tested - IQ² metal detectors
Loma's metal detectors incorporate an easy to use Performance Validation System (PVS). PVS automates the HACCP regime by automatically prompting the operator to check the performance of the metal detector at pre-set intervals and provides proof that the system is operating at optimum sensitivity throughout a product batch. |
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Feedback and enquiries If you no longer wish to receive Loma News, please email us on lomanews@loma.com For further information on Loma's range of products and services, visit www.loma.com |
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