The revolutionary Formax® F-400™ mid-sized forming machine possesses many features that should interest processors that manufacture a wide range of value-added products. “For example, it combines the latest technology with a full 15 3/4″ (400mm) of usable-product width to increase productivity for a higher output” says Tom Wolcott, Director of Research & Development and Electrical Engineering for Provisur® Technologies, parent company of Formax.
In addition to accommodating product versatility, the F-400 features a precise, high-speed, mold-plate drive. Independent of the hydraulic forming systems, the mold plate drive’s 7.5 HP (5.5 KW) motor powers the F-400 to variable speeds of 15 to 70 strokes per minute. Mold plates from 1/8″ x (3mm) thru 1″ (25mm) thickness can be used.
Its hygienically friendly design is cutting-edge. “Sealed stainless-steel cabinets are equipped with a blower that reduces humidity and controls temperature,” Wolcott says. “Feed screws are effortlessly removed for easy clean-up. One person can easily remove parts and prepare for sanitation.”
Equally important, the F-400’s lift system raises the mold cover, which allows the mold plate and knock-out cup assemblies to be quickly and easily changed.
“And it’s backed by the most valuable support package in the industry, which includes multi-lingual training and worldwide technical support 24/7 all year long,” he adds.
An optional PLC-controlled, paper-feed system papers fresh product and stacks it uniformly in tight formation on the conveyor.
“The machine papers product at 15-70 strokes per minute and electronically counts and stacks them from one to 20 portions per stack up to 5.5″ [140mm] high,” Wolcott says. “Paper hoppers can be refilled without interrupting production; paper hopper, vacuum bar and vacuum cups are easily removed to change sizes. The system is designed to use eight standard paper sizes up to 6″ [152mm].”
The F-400 can also be easily changed from “stack and count” to IQF production for use with flat belt and spiral freezers.
The F-400 is part of an exclusive Formax forming-technology line that includes the VerTex1000™, Maxum700®, NovaMax500™ and F-6™. Combined, this cutting-edge technology is transforming the Meat and Poultry industry.