Chain conveyor improves mozzarella packaging efficiency

Zott, a dairy manufacturer operating in the food industry, required a new conveyor solution for its mozzarella packaging line. The project aimed to improve hygiene standards, operational reliability, and long-term flexibility while minimizing disruption to existing production processes.

The company also sought to reduce operating costs through lower cleaning and maintenance requirements. In addition, the new installation needed to fit within the existing factory layout without requiring structural modifications.

Following an evaluation of available technologies, Zott selected the VarioFlow plus chain conveyor system from Bosch Rexroth.System integration and implementation were carried out in cooperation with HELDELE Mechatronik GmbH, a Rexroth Certified Excellence Partner.

Solution: Stainless Steel Conveyor System for Hygienic Operation
The selected conveyor system incorporates stainless steel components and hygienic design principles tailored to food processing applications. The chain and sliding rails comply with FDA/CFR 21 requirements, while bearings, returns, and curve wheels are manufactured from stainless steel and filled with NSF-H1 food-grade grease.

These characteristics enabled Zott to address strict hygiene requirements while reducing wear and cleaning effort. The system also provides smooth material flow and simplified maintenance procedures, contributing to improved production continuity.

HELDELE additionally developed and manufactured custom stainless steel lateral guides for the conveyor chain, adapting the installation to Zott’s specific operational requirements.

Implementation Without Production Disruption
A major project requirement was rapid installation with minimal impact on ongoing production. The conveyor system’s universal drive units allowed flexible motor positioning, eliminating the need for modifications to the available installation space.

The modular conveyor design and compact roller curves enabled long transport routes within a limited footprint while reducing friction and associated energy consumption.

Thanks to the established cooperation between Bosch Rexroth and HELDELE, system assembly and commissioning were completed within a few days during a planned production shutdown, minimizing operational downtime.

Results: Lower Maintenance and Future Expansion Capability
The new conveyor installation improved operational efficiency by reducing cleaning requirements and component wear, helping lower operating costs over time.

The conveyor system also provides greater flexibility for future production changes. Its modular architecture allows Zott to expand or adapt the line without major redesign work, supporting long-term production planning and future capacity requirements.

In addition, the low-friction transport design contributes to reduced energy consumption while maintaining reliable product handling throughout the mozzarella packaging process.

Edited by an industrial journalist Sucithra Mani with AI assistance.

www.boschrexroth.com