Dough-making controller and programmable weigher

Press, 17 March 1987, Page 23

Dough-making controller and programmable weigher

Electrical Control Systems, Ltd, has received Design Awards for both the MDD controller for dough making, and the ECS 1000 programmable weighing system. The MDD is a micro-processor-based control system for dough-making machines. It features electronic weighing, operator interface controls, electrical, pneumatic and motor starter equipment, and a printer. There are two models, Stage 1 and Stage 3. Both are available for righthand or left-hand operation, and come in white cabinets. Stage 3 incorporates the following additional features: auto skip control, dough temperature control, auto ingredient feeds, calendar clock and recipe programming. The ECS 1000 is a multi-purpose industrial weighing system designed for the food-processing industry. It comprises an electronic controller linked to load cells fitted to the hopper. It also features a key pad, LCD display, LED indicators and a printer. The system can be retrofitted to existing mixers or to new mixers. There are three models, known as Model 1,2 and 3, each enclosed in a white steel cabinet with a blue perspex front

panel. Model 1 features two set points, controlled for weight addition, with preact and output relays for zero-weight condition and error conditions. It also has remote inputs for automatic process control, push-button tare and computer interface. Model 2 has the additional feature of negative weighing. Model 3, a proportional weighing controller, is specifically designed for the baking industry and includes all the features of Models 1 and 2. It has a larger cabinet housing the additional equipment necessary for calculating the actual liquid required

for an individual mix, as a percentage of the actual flour weight delivered. For the MDD and ECS Model 3, the primary function is to control the process so as to provide product consistency. For the ECS 1000 Models 1 and 2, the primary function is to provide accurate and reliable weighing. Electronic Control Systems lists the following operational benefits: accurate and consistent control of the process: accurate and reliable weighing, simple to operate; features which provide easier control, monitoring and recording; and interface facility.