Industrial food processing equipment manufacturer Provisur is introducing the new Hoegger X3 Pro Form Press from the Provisur Slicing Business Unit. The press features load-sensing technology, in addition to a range of further systems that optimize processing and yield.

The meat industry not only requires flexible systems that can process many different products, but also high-performing lines for a limited product range with high-capacity requirements. Efficient slicer solutions are therefore essential. Provisur’s press-to-slice innovations deliver modular and full-line systems to process bacon, raw ham, cold cuts and more. High levels of automation ensure precision processing, product quality and waste reduction.

Hoegger X3 Pro Form Press. Photo courtesy of Provisur

The Hoegger X3 Pro form press optimally prepares the meat for the slicing process and enables fast and precise pressing of products such as bacon, raw ham and pork loin. The X3 Pro is an upgrade of the Hoegger X3 and was launched at IFFA with an integrated load-sensing module and other innovative features. It delivers maximum yield with minimum operating costs. The heart of the servo-hydraulic X3 Pro is the servo press technology, which enables fast and precise travel profiles. Intelligent force control combined with 3D pressing allows gentle forming of each product. The X3 Pro offers user-friendly and simple machine operation. The degree of automation can be increased through flexible loading and unloading modules. The X3 Pro can be fully integrated into existing or new production lines.

The new load-sensing module consists of additional hydraulic control components and the load-sensing software. It achieves new levels of control of the hydraulic unit; the press only ever generates as much pressure as is actually required for the product and the process, thus reducing the electrical power consumption to the actual requirement. In times of spiraling energy costs, this module reduces electrical power consumption to the lowest possible amount for the press to function effectively. Energy savings of up to 65% are possible. This leads to a noticeable decrease in operating costs without impacting press results or production volume. The load-sensing technology also significantly reduces the noise emission of the machine, making work more attractive for operators.

A further standout feature of the X3 Pro is the toolless die set, which is easily and quickly changeable. This new feature can reduce tool change time by up to 50%. Operation is gentle, and this reduces the necessity for spare parts, leads to longer usability of the hydraulic fluid as well as a major reduction in the amount needed for cooling.

Recently, a prototype of the Hoeggar X3 Pro was tested at Becketts Foods Ltd in Coventry, UK. Carl Green, head of engineering at the plant, gave his feedback on the machine:

“We had the opportunity to trial the Hoegger X3 Pro prototype on-site for several weeks, and from an engineering perspective, we’ve been thoroughly impressed with the machine’s performance. It integrated seamlessly into our production line, operating with high reliability and efficiency right from commissioning.

"Compared to our former Hoegger meat press, we’ve seen a marked reduction in noise levels, lower emissions, and significantly improved energy efficiency — all contributing to a more sustainable and operator-friendly environment. Changeover times have been cut with the rapid toolless die set change, reducing downtime and increased operational flexibility.

"Most notably, the machine consistently delivers uniform pressing in both shape and density, which has enhanced the efficiency of our downstream handling and packing processes. It’s capable of maintaining high throughput without any compromise on product quality, making it a robust and valuable asset in our processing setup.”

Hoegger TrimX: Intelligent bacon trimming

For bacon processors, the key to achieving higher yields is ensuring that every belly is perfectly shaped before arriving at the slicer. The Hoegger TrimX is the first intelligent and fully automated all-in-one system for processing different-sized processed bacon bellies. It consists of a scanner, side strapper and docker. 

The TrimX scans and analyzes the belly in 3-D to determine fat and lean content, as well as defects. It automatically removes defects before pressing and slicing. Sophisticated algorithms protect the meat from overpressing, optimize the belly volume and ensure a maximum quantity of premium slices. This leads to higher yields, fewer miscuts and losses and increased throughput during slicing.

Predictive slicing: the Press-to-Slice Module 

Provisur’s Press-to-Slice Module can be a game changer for processors; After pressing, the Press-to-Slice Module takes over, weighing, scanning and aligning each individual product before it is transferred to the slicer. The module’s technology optimizes the workflow between the Hoegger press and the Formax SX550 slicer. 

A 3D scanner and scales provide precise data for further processing. Blue-light sensor technology generates a three-dimensional image of the product to determine portioning before slicing. Continuous communication between module and slicer ensures exact portion weights and optimized yields. The high degree of automation minimizes manual intervention, optimizes hygiene and reduces personnel requirements. 

Resource-saving components and low energy consumption contribute to sustainability.

Formax SX550: Portioning and slicing

The Formax SX550 high-speed slicer is ideal for foods such as bacon and ham. With a slicing throat measuring 550 by 206 millimeters and a blade speed of up to 2000 rpm, it achieves high throughput and is designed for demanding, high-performance applications. Two independent drives enable precise slicing of natural-shaped products. The hygienic design facilitates quick cleaning. In combination with the Press-to-Slice Module, it achieves maximum yield and minimum waste. Furthermore, the production of standardized goods is ensured in compliance with packaging regulations; tolerances are automatically maintained and optimized.

The Formax family: Portfolio for maximum yield and versatility 

In the Formax family, all models are characterized by extremely compact design and extensive configuration options. The SX330 slicer is designed for small batch sizes and is particularly versatile. The SX380, for medium-sized products, is the perfect solution for products of different lengths or uneven shapes. 

The Formax SX330 delivers high throughput with a small footprint and flexible configuration. It is extremely versatile and can slice multiple SKUs per day. At 330 by 160 millimeteres, it also has the largest cutting throat in its class. This innovative slicing system, with its involute blade, ensures top performance with a blade speed of 1000 or 1500 RPM, which is unrivaled for this size of slicer.

Source: Provisur