A new generation of its ServoForm depositors has been launched by APV Baker for the production of hard and soft candies, toffees, gums, jellies, and lollipops.

Incorporating a range of features that are said to improve flexibility, increase output, and ease operation, the equipment offers high dimensional shape and weight accuracy, negligible scrap rates, efficient wrapping, maximum hygiene, and low maintenance, says APV's Keith Graham.

Key to the improvements are the use of servomotors to control machine movements. Three-axis control is standard thus enabling deposit patterns, fillings, and weights to be changed at the touch of a button. "This provides an operator with complete mastery of the depositing process including 'on-the-run' fine-tuning; an optional fourth axis of control is available for mould lift."

The servo motors are controlled by programmable logic controllers and a touch-sensitive human-machine-interface screen that provides process visualisation, recipe management, alarm handling, and data logging. The process can be integrated with upstream and downstream equipment or into a plant supervisory system.

Mounting drive components on the machine frame rather than on the depositing head ensures higher output. "This 'underband' design reduces the inertia of the head and thus allows a higher depositor running speed; in addition, it contributes to improved hygiene and easier maintenance."

Contact: APV Baker,

Tel: 01733 283000