Needleblock for meat processing

Using metals for the block in such applications is generally difficult due to the poor sliding properties of metal on metal. In contrast, metals can easily slide on plastic. Furthermore, metals often react sensitively to chemicals, with the top layer of the metal being attacked. For these reasons, the block in which the needles move is often made of compliant materials such as PE, as was the case here. PE has excellent sliding properties, but, on the other hand, there is a serious danger of deformation, which could mean a high risk of pieces of plastic in food.

The metal needles operate in a block: the process of curing requires the needles to move in and out, pricking the meat to inject a flavour solution. There is no direct contact between the block and the meat, but there is a risk, in case of wear or damage, that fragments may fall into the meat. Furthermore, high pressure is built up in the system, because the needles move through a spring mechanism and prick the meat approx. 2-3 mm deep, meaning that the block needs to have good mechanical strength.

TECAFORM AH can be processed faster and more accurately, meaning less rework is necessary. In contrast, not all forms of PE can be processed, resulting in certain restrictions on procurement. Selecting the thermoplastic material TECAFORM AH can thus cut processing costs. Another improvement is the use of TECAFORM AH blue, the acetal blue compliant with FDA and EU 10/2011 developed by Ensinger for food applications. Blue is not only a popular colour in the food industry, it also significantly reduces the risk of plastic contamination in food because of its optically detectability. Blue is a strategy for detectability – optical detectability by the finishing line operator. TECAFORM AH blue, as the natural grade, is also chemically resistant to detergents.

After a training course for introduction of EU 10/2011, in cooperation with the customers, the needle block was the first application which was adapted for optical detection. A prototype was developed and, after successful tests, customers were encouraged to convert more components.