APPLICATION: Baking Industry Bulk Ingredient Storage
The US baking industry makes up 2.1% of the gross domestic product according to the American Baker’s Association. Producers represent almost 3,000 independent bakers many with less than 10 employees. Large bakeries represent about 55% of total baking revenue in the U.S.
One BinMaster bakery customer counts on sugar and flour, stored in silos, to feed its baking operation. Inventory management is critical because ordering bulk commodities in a timely manner prevents spoilage and shortages.
CHALLENGE: Sticky Material Builds Up On Silo Walls
Without sugar and flour, production stops. Flour tends to adhere to silo walls, creating buildup and rat-holing. Different types of flour cannot be mixed and knowing the volumes of stored flour can be crucial to the quality of the final product.
Sugar can create challenges for measurement devices that must deliver data even when the material is sticking to the device. Bulk ingredients create random formations in a silo creating another challenge with continuous measurement.
SOLUTION: 3DLevelScanner
BinMaster’s 3DLevelScanner overcomes this harsh, sticky environment. Sensors map the surface to measure the quantity of sugar and flour in silos. Data turns into an image of the material surface displaying high and low points for the manager who can react with timely maintenance to reduce production interruptions. Early detection of high and low spots in the silo will ease maintenance, reduce costs and allow for optimal use of contents. Ordering in a timely manner also helps optimize purchasing.
