AMPC explores use of magnetic conveyor technology to optimise red meat processing

AMPC together with Intelligent Robotics is advancing research into the use of magnetic conveyor technology for red meat processing materials and product handling solutions. 

The magnetic conveyor system uses ‘planar motor technology’ which is a smart conveying robot system able to provide unprecedented flexibility, precision, intelligence, re-configurability, scalability and traceability.

Currently, meat processing plants in Australia use conventional non-magnetic conveyor systems for many materials and product handling activities.  

AMPC Program Manager Stuart Shaw said, “New technologies are being continuously developed outside of the meat industry that could have benefits and be applicable to the red meat processing industry. By looking out for new technologies and how they are being used in other industries, is how we can determine how they can be used in red meat processing.”

Although at an early stage, the potential benefits of using magnetic conveyor systems for meat processing include minimising maintenance and cleaning requirements and improving production flexibility and traceability.

The research is investigating how this industry-first conveying solution will respond in an Australian boning room environment. The system was recently installed at a Queensland meat processing plant to undergo non-production trials and in this test environment the technology will be exposed to production conditions and regular washdown procedures. 

Stuart said, “It’s a necessary step towards learning about the durability and potential limitations of the technology to assist with further development. The system will be tested over an extended period in cool production room conditions and undergoing industry standard high pressure, hot water and chemical washdown procedures.

“Intelligent Robotics are currently monitoring progress of the trials to evaluate how the technology responds. Ultimately, we want to investigate whether this system is fit-for-purpose for the red meat processing industry and identify further research priorities for the technology.”

The unit will be inspected regularly throughout a six-month testing period.