APEC Blog

The APEC team is here to be your number one resource regarding all automated processing topics. Explore our blog posts below to learn more.

Designing Feed Mill Equipment for Winter Conditions

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Freezing temperatures can affect more than exposed pipes. In a feed mill that is not temperature controlled, winter conditions can contribute to equipment problems, inconsistent material flow, poor feed quality and sanitation concerns. While preventative maintenance plays an important role in avoiding these issues, winter…
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How to Improve Micro Ingredient Batching Accuracy in Feed Production

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When a feed formula calls for ingredients in very small quantities, there's less room for error. An inaccurate addition may represent only a small amount of material, but it can have a big impact on the consistency and quality of the finished feed. That's why…
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Why Custom Food Processing Equipment Outperforms Off-the-Shelf Systems 

Before investing in new process equipment, many manufacturers prioritize upfront cost. But a more important consideration is often overlooked: the equipment must match the process.  Too often, standard equipment doesn't meet that requirement.  No two food processing lines are exactly alike, so how could cookie-cutter equipment possibly fit every…
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Behind APEC’s Collaborative Food Processing Equipment Design Process

No one knows your production line like you do, from the exact mix of ingredients you're working with to the sanitation standards you must meet and how materials move through your process. Translating those variables into equipment that keeps your line running at peak performance…
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5 Powder Flow Control Problems And How to Fix Them

Powder flow problems can cause frustration and hours of expensive downtime. These issues occur when bulk materials do not move consistently through processing equipment, leading to blockages, inconsistent output, or material buildup. In this guide, we’ll show you how to improve powder flow by identifying…
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How to Improve Process Equipment Integration & Training

Before you make a large capital investment in processing equipment, it’s important to understand the entire process of equipment integration, calibration and testing.  In this guide, we explain: What process equipment integration involves Why calibration is important How operator training improves performance What testing should…
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How Material Properties Impact Ingredient Feeding Systems

Ingredient handling systems are often designed around a set of expected material characteristics and assumed material flow properties. Engineers assume a certain bulk density, flow behavior or moisture range when selecting feeders and designing hoppers.  In practice, ingredient properties rarely remain perfectly consistent. Changes in suppliers, seasonal raw material…
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Keeping Your Batching System Running Through Cold Weather

When cold weather hits, your batching system feels the effects. Dropping temperatures can create a host of performance challenges that can lead to unplanned downtime, diminished product quality and material waste. The checklist below outlines the steps you can take to keep your batching system…
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Pilot Testing and Prototyping: Reducing Risk in Capital Equipment Investments

Investing in custom automated processing equipment can be a risk. There is uncertainty about potential problems, errors, or bugs that may emerge. When you partner with APEC, you can implement automated processing equipment with confidence thanks to our pilot testing and prototyping capabilities. With pilot…
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Why R&D Matters in Processing Equipment: From Concept to Plant Floor

The processing equipment industry is constantly evolving, and it is important to look for new innovations for improvement. At APEC, we believe in the value of research and development (R&D). Instead of being content with the way a process has always been done, R&D dives…
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