The Loma Systems IQ3 detector head is now available with Atex21 certification, meaning it can provide in-processing metal detection in areas where a potentially explosive atmosphere exists.
According to the Hampshire, UK-based company, Atex21 compliance was achieved using a combination of low temperature electronics and advanced sealing techniques, and the award followed a “painstaking development programme and a rigorous testing procedure”.
The IQ3 is now available with the new detector head as a complete new system, or as a retrofit via the company’s network of OEM partners.
“We are determined to bring the highest levels of safety to the food industry, both in the products that leave the factory, and in the welfare of its employees,” says Loma Systems R&D manager David Phillips.
“This development has been driven by customers looking to increase efficiency whilst eliminating risk in the workplace, and the results reflect our absolute commitment to operator safety.”
Phillips adds: “After a long and challenging process, we can now offer high levels of detection performance within a Zone 21 environment, ensuring product integrity across a wide range of food and pharmaceutical products”.
Explosive hazards can be found in many areas of the food industry, such as milling plants, bakeries, snack factories and powder processing units where airborne dust from materials such as flour, cocoa, rice, and grains is found.
The IQ3 metal detector head performs well in harsh operating environments where rigorous wash-down procedures are needed.
It uses “award-winning variable frequency technology”, which allows the operator to auto-select the correct frequency, and an ‘Automatic Product Learn’ system, which enables it to calibrate and retain the characteristics and settings for up to 100 product lines.
