Ensuring the highest standards of hygiene is vital for any powder processor involved in the infant formula market. Following a 2022 Salmonella outbreak initially linked to formula, the U.S. FDA issued stricter guidelines designed to avoid bacterial contamination during processing. But how can manufacturers implement these changes while also keeping costs under control?

The recently-launched JBT SeamTec™ 2 Evolute For Powder Products offers a viable solution for balancing improved processing hygiene with cost reductions. 

With a focus on a simplified, accessible design, the SeamTec 2 retains the core features of the previous version of the infant formula seamer – including spill reduction, packaging size (including DDE) flexibility, and – if the powder requires it – explosion proof technology. At the same time, the system delivers significant improvements in hygienic design, cleanability and ergonomics.

The new design also focuses on improving the sustainable aspects of the technology with a smaller footprint including an improved, optimized layout that makes the SeamTec 2 easier to operate and maintain. The machine also enables processors to benefit from an expanded range of configurations; all of which can be made in a short space of time.

“In essence, the SeamTec 2 combines all of our infant formula knowledge, while at the same time improving hygiene standards and avoiding additional costs, such as the need to regularly lubricate machine parts,” says Ronald Annendijck, JBT’s Global Product Line Manager for Filling & Closing. “The SeamTec 2 will remain the top machine for infant formula, but now simplified and therefore more cost-effective.”

What the SeamTec 2 offers:

  • Improved, Hygienic Design: Featuring a new, easy-to-clean, open design, the SeamTec 2 significantly reduces the amount of oil required for lubrication and guarantees no airborne oil particles, reducing contamination risks as a result. Further, no infeed chain is required, there’s no hollow body design and a sealed-off seaming area.
  • Cost-effective: At a more accessible price, but with the same, premium features, the SeamTec 2 will benefit processors dealing with multiple overheads. Additionally, the need for less lubricant makes the system more sustainable and saves on costs.
  • Reduced Powder Spill: Features an infeed scroll till seaming table, stopping lifter and the highest amount of seaming heads possible within the market for decreased rotational speed.
  • Multiple Configurations: Configuration for each high-speed powder application, while having the possibility for low change-over possibilities for a 3, 4, and 6-head and combi 4, combi 6, and triple 6 are possible. All possible for POE or DDE cans, with the possibility for changeover.
  • Ergonomics: Combined with a heavily reduced weight of change parts, the ergonomics of the equipment are heavily improved and feature poka-yoke and combi execution.

“The evolving requirements within the industry in terms of hygienic design, ease of use and economical constraints created the need for a redesign which resulted in the SeamTec 2,” adds Annendijck. “This equipment is an unrivaled seaming technology offering the highest hygienic design currently within the market.”

The SeamTec 2 complements JBT PLF’s industry-renowned vacuum filling technology, which has served and elevated global brands for over three decades. It adds to other recent technology breakthroughs for powder processors, including the Vacuum Gassing System (VGS)™ and Virtus™ Modular Inline Filler.

“The production of safe, high-quality infant formula is critical, and JBT continues to exceed expectations in the development of the safest, most hygienic technology available to processors today, “ says Amedeo Scapin, Global Director Product Lines for JBT Diversified Food and Health. “JBT is known to be a reliable single point of contact for integrated and complex production lines (ISP) and with this latest development SeamTec 2 Evolute we master the core technology for an efficient and performing production line.”

LEARN MORE about the JBT’s range of Powder Filling Solutions