Detection of dense contaminants in all kinds of meat product boxes is one of the most common applications of X-ray equipment installed in slaughterhouses and cutting rooms.

 

In this post we specify what type of dimensions of dense foreign bodies can be detected with a good configuration and adjustment of a standard equipment, which integrates at least a camera that provides 0.8 mm pixel size and a power of 500W, necessary to be able to inspect box E2 Boxes. All specified dimensions should be detected with a minimum amount of false positive and under normal working conditions.

The main problem refers to the homogeneity of the boxes in terms of product distribution. Detection of the contaminant will be better when it is more homogeneous. That is, E2 boxes with 20 Kg of product and well positioned, will offer better results than boxes where the amount of product is greater or the distribution is not regular. Another problem is that products with bone have worse results than those obtained in products without bone.

 

Pork Collar Bone

   

 

Minimum dimensions of contaminants to detect
Stainless: 2,5 mm Ferrous: 2 mm Non Ferrous: 1,8 mm Ceramic: 10mm
Crystal Glass: 3 mm Zirconia: 4 mm Soda Lime Glass: 12mm

 

Pork Collar  Boneless

 

   

Minimum dimensions of contaminants to detect
Stainless: 2 mm Ferrous: 2 mm Non Ferrous: 1,8 mm Ceramic: 10mm
Crystal Glass: 2 mm Zirconia: 4 mm Soda Lime Glass: 10 mm

 

Pork  Ribs

 

     

Minimum dimensions of contaminants to detect
Stainless: 2,5 mm Ferrous: 3 mm Non Ferrous: 2,5 mm Ceramic: 10mm
Crystal Glass: 3 mm Zirconia: 4 mm Soda Lime Glass: 12 mm

 

Pork loin ribbon

 

 

Minimum dimensions of contaminants to detect
Stainless: 2 mm Ferrous: 1,5 mm Non Ferrous: 1,2 mm Ceramic: 10 mm
Crystal Glass: 2 mm Zirconia: 4 mm Soda Lime Glass: 12 mm

 

Pork Ribs

 

   

Minimum dimensions of contaminants to detect
Stainless: 3,5 mm Ferrous: 3,5 mm Non Ferrous: 3,5 mm Ceramic: 10 mm
Crystal Glass: 4 mm Zirconia: 4 mm Soda Lime Glass: 13 mm

 

Conclusions

  • It is very important to work with an equipment mechanically prepared to work with boxes of meat which also includes an specific software configuration
  • As we have seen, there are significant differences in the detection of foreign bodies in product with or without bone
  • A precise adjustment of this type of equipment requires a close teamwork between supplier and customer that ensures an optimal and homogeneous transition of the product

 

Detecting smaller contaminants than those exposed in this post is possible, but not with a standard contaminant detection project. This would require different hardware configurations, with new analysis methods and software modifications.

 

If after reading this post you have any more specific type of question or doubt, let us know and we will contact you.

(*) The detection ratios provided in this article are subject to optimal analysis conditions. Each case is particular and these data may vary.