Packing solution for langoustines

21 June 2021

An integrated weighing and tray sealing solution from Ishida Europe has enabled a Spanish fish processor to double throughput on one of its most popular and important product lines.

The new line at Gambastar comprises a 16-head Ishida CCW-RVE waterproof multihead weigher, QX-1100 automatic twin lane tray sealer and DACS-G checkweigher, which is weighing and packing fresh langoustines into a number of different-sized trays.

By replacing its previous linear weigher with the multihead, Gambastar has been able to increase line speeds from around 35 to 70 packs per minute. The new solution is also delivering better accuracies - to within 2% of target weight on a typical 520g tray.

A particular benefit of the QX-1100 tray sealer is the single tool that is required for the three different tray sizes from 200g to 1kg. This means that changeovers between packs can take place within a matter of minutes with the corresponding settings quickly called up on the intuitive and easy to use remote control unit.

Product is fed to the weigher by a vibratory conveyor. From the dispersion table at the top of the multihead weigher, the langoustines are transferred to the pool and weigh hoppers. It then takes a fraction of a second for the microprocessor to calculate the best combination of weigh hoppers to reach the target weight.

The selected product is transferred to a specially designed distribution system underneath the weigher. Trays are fed from a tray denester to beneath the weigher where dipping funnels ensure the complete and accurate placement of the langoustines. The trays are then fed into the tray sealer before receiving a final confirmatory weight check on the checkweigher.

The intelligent control system includes auto-set features and servo-drives for accurate and consistent tray handling at high speeds in order to maximise production throughput.

All three machines offer hygienic designs to enable the company to maintain strict hygiene standards. In particular, the IP66 waterproof construction of the Ishida weigher is designed for a full washdown, while all contact parts can be quickly and easily removed and hung on a special wash wall next to the weigher for an even more in depth clean down.

“What particularly attracted us to Ishida was the company’s ability to provide a fully integrated solution for this product,” explained Carlos Pineda, production manager at Gambastar. “Ishida was also prepared to guarantee that the line would be ready to meet our deadlines. We have been delighted with the performance and reliability of the line since it was installed.”