Portioning machines, a vital component of food processing, are meticulously designed for the automated filling and dosing of raw materials, semi-finished products, and finished food items according to specified parameters. These crucial parameters include:
- Weight
- Volume
- Size or a combination of several values
The primary function of portioning devices is to achieve high-speed and precise division of products into portions. These dimensions depend on the intended use of the product as well as the shape, volume, and the parameters of the future container.
Key Features of Portioning Machines:
Modern portioning equipment comes equipped with a diverse range of options, aiming to produce a homogeneous end product with a natural appearance while minimizing product waste.
Synonyms for these machines include filling machines, stuffing machines, dosing and forming equipment, formers, dosers, slicers for portion cutting, filling and portioning equipment.
Types of Portioning Machines:
Portioning machines are classified based on the method of supplying the product (feedstock):
- Manually
- Automatically
By design, portioning machines can be linear, rotary, or of a combined type.
For the cutting process, these devices may utilize disk, spiral, or crescent-shaped knives. Some advanced models offer pre-scanning of the product, employing computer processing for even more precise division, thereby reducing trimming and waste.
Applications of Portioning Machines:
Portioning devices find applications in the production of various food products such as:
- Sausage products (sausages, wieners, salami)
- Confectionery (cookies, sweets)
These machines can be incorporated into a production line for the processing of vegetables and fruits, as well as portion cutting of diverse products like bread, cured meat, and cheese.
Specific applications:
Meat, chicken, and fish portioning machines exhibit versatile functions and can produce products such as:
- Steaks
- Schnitzels
- Beef rolls
- Pork chops
- Crispy strips
- Meat medallions
- Fish or meat cutlets
- Stripes
- Nuggets
- Cubes
The optimal cutting scheme is calculated based on the predefined indicators and production tasks, ensuring the precise preservation of specified parameters such as dimensions, weight, and shape. This meticulous approach enhances the efficiency and functionality of portioning machines in various food processing applications.
