When it comes to food processing, there are two main types of detection technology: metal detection and x-ray inspection. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between metal detection and x-ray detection for food processing. We will also look at the pros and cons of each technology so that you can make an informed decision about which type of detection is right for your business!
The Benefits of Metal Detection
Advancements in metal detection technology overcome challenges previously experienced when testing food for foreign metal objects. Advancements in software have enabled the automated set-up of detection parameters, which greatly saves time. Other factors contribute to the benefits of metal detection, including:
- Quality assurance checks or visual inspections won’t pick up fragments of debris, meaning a metal detector is essential for ensuring there is no risk of metal contaminants in products individuals may consume.
- Linked to this, high levels of micro metal contamination in food processing operations are an indication there may be an issue with production equipment. This can help identify preventative maintenance needs for a device before it breaks down during production.
- Using metal detection equipment requires little maintenance and can reduce the need for time-consuming manual quality checks.
It doesn’t matter if a product’s contamination consists of iron, steel, stainless steel, or non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, and brass, CASSEL Inspection’s metal detectors for conveyors will detect all metallic foreign bodies using 4-quadrant technology. The detector sends signal to the process control system and eject the contaminated products automatically with fast-switching separation systems.
Another great factor is that CASSEL devices for the food industry comply with standards such as IFS, BRC, and FSMA.
The Benefits of X-Ray Inspection
X-ray inspection of food products has become highly utilized worldwide, primarily due to the high cost associated with food recalls caused by foreign body contamination. The FDA and other evaluating organizations have concluded scanning food with X-ray scanners does not pose a health risk to consumers. Other benefits of X-Ray inspection include:
- X-ray inspection can detect more than just metal. This distinction is important because food suppliers and end-users typically identify glass, ceramics, and dense plastics as frequent foreign substance culprits.
- X-ray inspection can effectively inspect for metal contaminants in packaged food where the package contains metalized films or foils which would trigger a false reject if inspected in a conventional metal detector.
- X-ray inspection machines perform impressive quality control functions that surpass foreign substance detection. For example, X-ray inspection systems can be utilized to verify accurate fill levels, sufficient product roundness, sufficient product count, and in some products, ripeness.
CASSEL Inspection X-ray inspection machines offer:
- Reliable Detection of Contaminants: Inspection technology ensures durable, reliable detection that provides protection for customers, products, and ultimately, brands. Pre-set options allow for fast and efficient product changes for consistent safety and quality with CASSEL XRAY SHARK inspection systems.
- Intuitive and User-Friendly Interface: CASSEL Inspection’s XIA software and touchscreen interface provide a smooth changeover and seamless inspection of every product. The intuitive installation and user-friendly system will help improve inspection quality and reduce false rejects. Comprehensive documentation is also easy with CASSEL Inspection XRAY SHARK systems, which provide an automatically generated electronic audit trail for complete, reliable records of compliance.
Metal detectors and X-ray inspection systems are commonly used to detect physical contaminants. However, because they use vastly different technologies to identify objects, selection between the two types of equipment depends on the type of hazard.
Selecting the right technology for your food application is key; you don’t want to overspend, but don’t want to be underprepared to enable quality assurance. We’re happy to connect and walk through which solution is right for you.