Conveyor Enhancement Decreases Product Cross Contamination

Triple/S Dynamics' Slipstick conveyor is now available with a pivot gate. A secondary protection chute has also been added below the gate assembly. Both new features have been designed to further guard against product cross contamination, which is a serious problem for many food processors. Product leakage through sanitary discharge gates may result from the buildup of dust and fines on contacting gate surfaces. As the gate is cycled in the presence of product, these fines are compressed against any contact surface, building up a layer of material. As the layer becomes thicker, parts break away exposing leak paths for fines to pass through the "closed" gate.

The pivot gate uses spring positioned UHMW seals to bear against three sides of a stainless steel plug that fits into a cutout in the conveyor pan bottom. The contact between the gate plug and the seal is a shear contact which wipes the contacting surfaces clean with each gate closing, thus avoiding material build-ups that lead to gate leakage.

The springs, which press the UHMW seals against the gate plate, are actually plugs of natural gum rubber pressed into the UHMW seals, and are completely isolated from the product zone by their position in the seal. The springs maintain the pressure of the seals against the plug and provide elasticity, which allows for thermal expansion of the UHMW in warm product applications.

The pivot gate is recommended for Slipstick applications with products containing dust and fines, especially if these materials are somewhat sticky, and where superior sealing is required.

The Slipstick Conveyor is an oscillating mechanical conveyor with a slow-speed, horizontal differential motion. The motion is a slow-advance and quick-return cycle that glides the product along the length of the conveyor. Advantages include clean design for faster sanitation; low maintenance requirements; products delivered without damage; retention of seasonings and coatings applied to product.

For more information contact Triple/S Dynamics, Inc., 1031 S. Haskell Ave., Dallas, TX 75223. Tel: 214-828-8600; Fax: 214-828-8688.