Improved coding and labelling efficiency and “major” cost savings have been seen at Dairy Crest's new Davidstow, Cornwall factory following the plant's installation of a variety of Markem integrated coding and printing equipment.
The factory has installed Markem Cimjet and Cimpak label printer-applicators and Inkjet 5000 printers on its cheddar production line, increasing reliability and accuracy in areas ranging from primary coding to pallet labelling. “Tailored” software solutions, including Markem CimControl software, have enabled integration of the new equipment with existing printers, coders, labellers and checkweighers.
The creamery produces and packs over 100 tonnes of cheddar daily and, in the extra mature cheese's case, stores it for up to 20 months. Accurate coding and labelling is thus essential.
To improve weighing accuracy, Markem networked in a highly accurate checkweigher and incorporated high quality scales and scanners. The cheese's precise weight is now sent via computer to the coder and automatically printed onto the label.
