Incorporating the new NovaMax500 from Formax, a Provisur Technologies brand, results in superior end products, optimal operational throughput while consistently ensuring advanced hygiene. This next-generation replacement for the F-19 forming system helps processors meet stringent customer demands while improving their own costs, portion control and machine maintenance.

During initial field-testing of this new forming system, Joe Maas, Vice President, JTM Food Group, Harrison, Ohio, and his team witnessed first-hand the many features this system has to offer. “My only complaint was Formax technicians couldn’t leave the NovaMax500 in our facility after successful field-testing,” Maas says. “Of course, I bought the machine – and based on the successful results of our test, we are planning to acquire even more.”

Its servo-controlled, rotary-product pump works in tandem with feed-screw movements that prevent overworking, plus it delivers a more natural bite for consumers. Meanwhile, a Servo Knock-Out System ensures precise product placement to downstream conveying systems.

Various speed requirements are met with a Direct Drive Servo System that performs at strokes of up to 100 per minute and a production rate of up to 6,000 lbs. (2,722 kg) per hour. Operators are afforded better process control via a 15" (381 mm) Touch Screen Interface that offers a full range of operating and diagnostic screens in multiple languages.

The NovaMax500 forming system features a unibody construction and a rigid one-piece pump box that saves time while assuring effective washdowns. Pivoting feed-screw drives, hopper and removable feed screws enable easy, thorough cleaning plus reduce maintenance time and costs.

The NovaMax500 is compatible with existing F-19 tooling and accessories for maximum savings and efficiency. Using existing F-19 tooling with the NovaMax500 could save a processor about as much money as what a new machine would cost. And the machine fits in the same footprint as the F-19. In some applications, processors may be able to get the same output with just one NovaMax500 as they were previously getting from two other forming machines combined. It also runs with popular filling and tooling systems for ground, whole-muscle and 3D products, including Tender-Form, Port-Fill, Verti-Form, Poultry-Plus and True-Sculpt.

Plant workers designated to the NovaMax500 learned how to operate it in less than one day, Maas verifies. Less learning time transfers into a lower cost of ownership benefit. Equally important, the NovaMax500 offers better portion control and is more consistent in weight distribution, Maas testifies.

Combined, the many features of NovaMax500 lowered the cost of ownership, lessened the need for maintenance and consistently delivered exceptional product quality. “What’s more, the end product looks better and has more consistent edges,” he adds.

The NovaMax500 is part of an exclusive Formax forming-technology line that also includes the VerTex1000™, Maxum700®, F-400™and the F-6™. Combined, this cutting–edge technology is transforming the Meat and Poultry industry.