Motor Solutions For Meat Processing Lines

Meat processing is a growing industry in the United States. According to the USDA, over the last decade, the amount and value of beef produced in the U.S. has increased. With the growth in demand comes an increase in the number of meat processing operations. These operations rely on equipment to keep America and the world fed. The electric motor keeps these operations moving.

Motors in meat processing have to be able to withstand harsh sanitation procedures. Producers also look for features like easy setup, efficient operation, and reliability. These factors are essential to ensuring the seamless operation of meat processing equipment.

In food processing, general purpose motors are not always the best choice. To meet this challenge, producers need motors with specific attributes. This guide will delve into these distinguishing features. You'll learn how these motors operate effectively within this challenging environment.

Features of Meat Processing Line Motors

Stainless Steel Meat Processing Motors and Components

Food producers need to keep equipment clean for the health and safety of consumers. Food production equipment undergoes regular sanitation, or washdown procedures. These procedures involve hot water at high pressure and often, caustic chemicals. Not all electric motors can withstand this type of treatment. Stainless steel is the material of choice for meat processing line motors. Stainless steel resists rusting, deterioration, and bacterial build-up. It can handle moisture from raw materials and harsh cleaning procedures.

Sealed and Encapsulated Motor Designs

An encapsulated motor is one with a protective housing. This housing keeps contaminants from entering the motor. The housing encases the motor’s interior components. Encapsulated designs ensure debris, moisture, and chemicals will not enter the motor. For example, feather picker motors often feature a TEFC (or Totally-Enclosed Fan Cooled) design. TEFC motors can protect against feathers without compromising the motor’s internal components.

Sealed motor designs are different from TEFC motors. In these motors, manufacturers seal off bearings, shaft-end frames, and other critical components. This protects these components from contaminants. The type of sealant used can vary from rubber to metal. Each type of sealant protects the component individually from contaminant ingress.

Food Grade Lubricants

Lubrication can keep a motor's components from failing. Food-grade lubricants are a must for motors in facilities that process and handle food products. These lubricants use ingredients that follow food safety regulations. They will not contaminate food products in the case of incidental contact. Food-safe lubricants reduce internal friction. They also create a seal around the motor, adding a protection factor. Lubrication can protect a motor's internal components from water, steam, or cleaning chemicals.

Why IP Ratings Matter

When choosing a motor for meat processing, a good first step is to check what Ingress Protection (IP) rating you need. The IP rating is a set of numbers that shows how well a motor is protected from liquids and solid particles. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) defines these ratings. An IP rating can help you understand how well a motor can handle moisture, dust, and debris in tough environments.

Each number in the code has a meaning. The first numeral defines the level of protection against solid objects on a scale of 0 – 6. The second numeral is the level of protection against liquids and a scale of 0 – 9. For example, LEESON’s offering of washdown motors ranges from IP55 to IP69. At minimum, this motor line will protect against dust and water jets used in cleaning meat processing areas.