Solutions for x-ray & metal detectable silicone & rubber in food processing equipment
Detectable properties are often associated with plastic consumables in the food processing industry, required typically in items such as pens and clipboards. In food safety terms, it’s also important to consider the role of unseen, internal fittings, and the increased risk presented by loose or sheared seals and gaskets.
Radical & DTI develop x-ray & metal detectable nylon for 3D printing
In order to prevent plastic foreign body contaminants, components utilised on food production lines are frequently made from x-ray or metal detectable nylon. While these components are mostly either injection moulded or machined from solid stock materials, it is often desirable to have such components manufactured by 3D printing due to the advantages afforded by this technique
Metal detectable masterbatch: The 4 essential considerations
It is important to consider several key areas when specifying a metal detectable masterbatch for use in injection moulding and extrusion of detectable polymer products.
Why is it important to have a dual focus on detectable polymer compound?
Metal & x-ray detectable plastics allow any products which are made from plastics/polymers to be enhanced in terms of their ability to be detectable by metal and/or x-ray detection systems.
Foreign bodies entering the food processing chain and passing undetected through to consumers is a major concern for the food industry and something which is monitored and reported on by organisations such as Food Standards Agency. Examples of foreign bodies include metal, wood, ceramic, glass, rubbers and plastics and, due to the varying nature of these, often different detection techniques are necessary to target each. One of the most difficult categories to detect is rubbers and plastics due mainly to their comparative low density (similar to many foods) and non-conductive/non-magnetic nature. Polymers are used extensively throughout food production lines and hence being able to detect foreign body fragments of them is an important consideration. This is the basis of the key role to be played by detectable polymer compound.
What is an antimicrobial masterbatch?
An antimicrobial masterbatch is a mixture of antimicrobial additives that are compounded into a suitable polymer carrier and formed into pellets. This antimicrobial polymer masterbatch is then incorporated into the bulk polymer material by manufacturing processes such as extrusion or injection moulding, to provide long term antimicrobial efficacy, often for the life of the product.
The complex reality of antimicrobial PVC
Antimicrobial PVC has many applications, but good efficacy is only achieved through the use of additives, since PVC is not inherently antimicrobial.PVC, a versatile polymer, is often mistakenly perceived as inherently antimicrobial. This misconception likely stems from historical practices and the release of certain chemicals during processing and while antimicrobial PVC is certainly feasible, a deeper understanding reveals a more nuanced picture.
Antimicrobial silicone
Good efficacy can be achieved in most grades of antimicrobial silicone, but interactions with the active substance should be carefully evaluated.
Antimicrobial additives: 6 essential considerations
When selecting antimicrobial additives for use in a polymer, there are six key issues that should be carefully considered in order to ensure optimum results.
What regulations apply to metal detectable and x-ray detectable plastics?
When employing metal or x-ray detectable plastics, it is important to consider the regulations & standards applicable to the country in which the end products will be placed on the market.
What type of products can be made using metal and x-ray detectable plastics?
Metal & x-ray detectable plastics allow any products which are made from plastics/polymers to be enhanced in terms of their ability to be detectable by metal and/or x-ray detection systems.
