Tetra Pak hopes predictive maintenance tech can transform food production

An innovate new predictive maintenance technology which is expected to transform operational efficiency for food and drink manufacturers has been showcased at 2017 Hannover Messe.

Tetra Pak, who are among the world leaders in food processing and packing, has launched a new Condition Monitoring service to allow manufacturers to predict machine failures before they happen, helping to minimise machine downtime and maintenance costs.

The technology is based on Microsoft’s Azure Cloud and provides real-time analysis of operational performance data from more than 5000 connected filling machine lines around the world. That data is then used to advise customers on maintenance needs in a more timely and effective manner than was previously possible, allowing them to order parts in advance, schedule manpower, and plan other repairs during the scheduled downtime.

Tetra Pak describes the new service as a “true game changer” for the industry and claims trial programmes are already demonstrating strong results. The company started a six-month pilot in January of last year, supporting 17 lines across 10 customers in Europe and the Americas and found that downtime was eliminated by up to 48 hours for each line.

Johan Nilsson, Vice President Tetra Pak Services said: “We are constantly innovating with our customers and partners to enhance our services. With the new Condition Monitoring Maintenance service, we will support customers to predict failures before they happen and optimise maintenance to reduce downtime.

“We are pleased that the new service will help customers significantly increase productivity, reduce failures and ultimately, raise business profitability."