Weight Indicator Protects Quality

Swift & Company, a world-leading processor of fresh beef and pork, is passionate about the quality of its meat. Its processes exceed hygiene regulations to guarantee product safety– which is now even easier, thanks to anAvery Weigh-Tronix washdown indicator.

The Louisville, Kentucky (US) plant processes over 1000 pigs per hour. To comply with the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) hygiene requirements, all equipment that the meat touches must withstand thorough cleaning regimes. Swift has over 150 Avery Weigh-Tronix scales and indicators at the plant.

Heavy washdown

When Electronics Technician, Todd Kruse heard about the washdown indicators from local distributor, American Scale, he was interested in testing it out. To perform well, it would have to compete with daily jet washing up to 200-psi pressure, cleaning with soapy water up to 170 °F (76.6 °C) and extremes of temperature in the hot and cold rooms.

Avery Weigh-Tronix produce indicators that are waterproof by design. Extensive submersion, heat and expansion tests during their manufacture have proven the indicators' performance beyond ordinary operating conditions.

USDA Compliant

For Swift, the indicator they used (the E1010, since superseded by the ZM300 range) soon proved its suitability. Todd Kruse said, “After eight months, we tested the unit from the cold hog room for moisture ingress. Despite operating continuously in a very cold and wet environment, the inside of the indicator was completely dry.”

Todd continues, “The indicator has stood up to scrutiny from USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) inspectors who visit the plant daily to check our hygiene standards. We are delighted with the product.”

Benefits

• Completely watertight – to ensure continuous operation in the wash down environment.
• Can be cleaned thoroughly with hot water and detergent– to maintain hygiene standards.
• The keypad membrane resists scratches during cleaning– for better operator visibility and longer life.
• Simple design is quicker to service – reducing downtime.