5 Questions with Paul Gaertner

Object detection is at the heart of all QA efforts in any food processing facility. Detectapro’s metal and X-ray detectable products are a critical tool in helping achieve success. Paul Gaertner, President of Detectapro Products, LLC., has been helping food processors work towards 0% foreign object contamination for more than 18 years.

1 What is object detection all about?

Object detection is the ability of the object being used, a pen for example, to be detected in the food processing environment. Object detection, or in our case, metal/X-ray detectable products, work in conjunction with detection devices used on the processing line. If an object falls into the food being processed, detection units placed above the line detect the foreign object and reject it, keeping the final product contaminant free.

2 How does object detection work with BRC 8?

BRC 8, section 4.9.6.2 is the requirement regarding small parts, stating: “Pens used in open product areas shall be controlled to minimize risk of physical contamination (e.g., designed without small parts and detectable by foreign body detection equipment).” Our pens are 100% detectable and abide to the language in the BRC 8 section 4.9.6.2. Unlike our competitors, all our products are molded without metal springs or other small parts. Other items such as cable ties, markers, scrapers, knives and key hole tags comply to section BRC8 and have no small parts.

3 Can Detectapro create new products that are metal detectable?

Detectapro offers a wide range of in-stock metal detectable products. However, when custom applications are needed, we rise to the challenge. A great example is our custom-imprinted Key Hole Tags. Originally available in one size, we worked with the distributor and the end user to create various sizes (up to 3-by-12 inches) with custom four-color printing on both sides.

4 How detectable are your products?

All of our products are 100% detectable when using metal and X-ray detection systems. The key in detecting our metal-detectable products lies with the ratio of the aperture to the size of the product. Every product is different, and every detectable fragment size need is different. A good starting point is a 3mm fragment. However, you have to consider what the product is and take into account the different environmental variables. Ice cream, for example, may change its density and moisture levels throughout the processing and packaging cycle. This creates a need for the sensitivity being measured at the geometric center of the machine’s aperture to change from one machine on the line to the next.

5 Where are your products produced?

All of our products are produced in the U.S. and the U.K. Because of this practice, our products also carry liability insurance. (Products produced in China, Eastern Europe and India do not carry liability insurance.) Many of our products are created through injection molding. By molding our products in the U.S. and the U.K., we are able to oversee the process. We never mold using a compromised mold allowing us to deliver the highest quality product to you, every time. This process helps you as you work toward achieving zero percent foreign object contamination.