PTL Machinery

Companies in the chocolate and snack industry faced challenges with footprint, changeover times, washdown times, and melt rates when processing multiple chocolate and fat products. Traditional tank systems were too large, slow to clean, and energy-intensive.

PTL designed continuous melters incorporating Allen-Bradley CompactLogix controllers, PowerFlex 525 drives, PanelView Plus 7 HMI, and POINT I/O-Link sensor technology on an EtherNet/IP network. IO-Link sensors provide detailed machine health diagnostics and remote troubleshooting capabilities.

Fast changeover between multiple products was achieved in 1–2 hours compared to traditional tank systems. The machines have a compact footprint, easy 1–2 hour cleaning cycles, and lower power consumption than traditional systems. Real-time diagnostics are available both locally and remotely.

• IO-Link sensor technology transforms machines from simple actuators into intelligent, diagnosable assets • Compact servo-integrated machines can match traditional tank output in significantly less floor space • Hygienic design and fast changeover together enable food manufacturers to run diverse product portfolios on single equipment