Popcorn Sprayed with Oil & Flavorings
Manufacturers find that keeping a close monitor on the oil and flavorings on popcorn not only gives improved product quality, but also lower energy costs, reduced start-up times, less waste, 100% product inspection, and less downtime.
MoistTech is very experienced with the requirements in the production of popcorn and snack foods. With Bottom of For more than 40 years of experience and the help of industry partners, MoistTech has developed one of our most accurate oil sensors, the IR-3000 moisture sensor. It is ideally suited to measure the oil and flavorings sprayed on popcorn during the manufacturing process. The sensor is coated in a food grade Teflon with a polymeric viewing window enabling manufacturers to improve product quality without any contamination. But the IR-3000 isn’t just for oil testing. It takes instant, accurate, non-contact measurements of temperature, seasonings, moisture, fat, sugar, protein, and more. Oil and flavoring levels can be adjusted either manually or automatically.
Our sensor calibrations, measurement wavelengths, algorithms and sensor optical requirements are pre-set at the factory. Typical accuracy is about ±0.1% moisture. Typical analog range is 0-10% moisture. The outputs can be adjusted to optimize PLC or recording requirements.
By installing the sensor after the sprayer, the amount of oil and flavoring on the popcorn can be measured and controlled. The sensor should be installed several inches above the belt or screw conveyor so that a production worker can continuously monitor the process and can control the oil and flavoring content either manually or automatically in the finished product.
If the popcorn has gone through an oil spray, it is important to install the sensor at an angle to cut down any reflection from the oil coating.
If the sensor is located near an oil spray, it is necessary to clean the sensor’s optical window during regular routine cleaning. If the oil or flavoring sensor has to be installed where it will be susceptible to extreme heat conditions, it is necessary to cool the sensor with either air or water.
Take a look at our other food moisture sensor applications.
Contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives for more information about your application and the best installation practices for your equipment.
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