Loma's Hot Off The Mark Service Is A Winner For Rannoch Smokery

World leader in food industry metal detection, checkweighing and X-ray inspection equipment, Loma Systems has been applauded by long-standing customer, Rannoch Smokery, for high levels of service and support following the installation of two of its high performance IQ3 Metal Detectors.

Excellent technical support coupled with dedicated locally-based sales and service engineers has helped ensure maximum uptime and efficiency at the plant located on the far-flung shores of Loch Rannoch in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Rannoch Smokery produces some of Scotland’s finest gourmet smoked meats and game, including venison, obtained from the hills surrounding Loch Rannoch, in the shadow of Schiehallion. Supplying independent retailers, supermarkets and hotels, the company is renowned for luxury products so maintaining its excellent reputation is key to the brand’s on-going success.

As part of its commitment to quality, Rannoch Smokery recognised a need to source only best of breed inspection equipment, leading to the installation of its first Loma IQ3 Metal Detector several years ago on a line producing bulk vacuum packs of meat and game.

Impressed by Loma’s consistent service delivery and unparalleled support, despite the remote location, and the reliable performance of the ‘designed to survive’ IQ3 Metal Detector, Rannoch Smokery was quick to specify the same model for a new line dedicated to skin wrapped packs of sliced meat and game for the retail sector.

A crucial part of the slicing process is to ensure no metal contaminants end up in the final product. By choosing Loma’s IQ3 true variable frequency Metal Detector, Rannoch Smokery has virtually guaranteed a failsafe quality control process.

Specially designed to fit seamlessly into the new line, Rannoch Smokery is reporting that the second IQ3 Metal Detector has also helped to further improve efficiencies and safeguard quality standards. The meat and game is sliced, skin wrapped and then transferred by conveyor to the metal detector where it is inspected for potential metal contaminants.

Maggie Legate, Operations Manager at Rannoch Smokery comments: “Although we are in a remote location it is vital our equipment suppliers can provide a high level of support as a lack of maintenance will inevitably lead to an increased risk of downtime as machine components wear out. Knowing we have instant access to expert advice from Loma’s reputable support team and dedicated locally-based sales and service engineers is a real safety net, plus the free technical support available with the IQ3 Metal Detectors means issues can often be resolved with a quick telephone call or even by email.”

Loma’s UL and CUL approved IQ3 and IQ3+ Metal Detectors feature a super hygienic design and offer true variable frequency, operating between 40-900 kHz. The robust units, which are produced from stainless steel and meet IP69K washdown standards, are capable of automatically selecting correct operating frequency in seconds so changes in products or packaging that necessitate an alteration in frequency no longer require costly and inconvenient operator intervention.

“Loma really does offer a complete package comprising quality machines, service, support and experience,” adds Maggie. “We can honestly say that both metal detectors have proved reliable and hassle-free with any issues being resolved quickly by Loma. The variable frequency gives us the option of easily running different sizes and shapes, as well as the benefit of increased sensitivity and improved stability. These days, the ability to detect small particles accurately is vital for any food processor or producer.
Maggie concludes: “The installation of both systems was seamless and the graphics driven colour touch screen is exceptionally user friendly. Our operatives say using the IQ3 is effortless and both units have recognisably boosted production efficiencies.”

Loma achieves over 91% First Time Fix Rate which it attributes to the excellent technical support available with its advanced food industry inspection equipment, backed by a dedicated service team, guaranteed next-day response and bespoke preventative maintenance agreements.

The company measures two key elements of its service delivery, Response Time and First Time Fix Rate. On average, across all service call outs in the UK, Loma is achieving more than nine out of ten problems fixed, within one working day from the time the problem is first reported.

If required, one of Loma’s local field technicians will conduct an on-site visit. With free technical telephone support, Loma can ensure the technician arrives quickly, with the right parts, and has the necessary training to perform a quick and effective repair.

Loma offers bespoke service and calibration packages. Each contract is tailored to the business and equipment needs which provide a number of benefits including maximum machine performance, advanced bookings, control over expenditure and elimination of problems before they arise.