Allpax, powered by Pro Mach, introduced the AllTrax™ basket tracking system for non-automated retort rooms. AllTrax is a barcode-based system for tracing cans, jars, trays, and pouches by basket through each checkpoint in the retort room and tagging those packages to verified processing by an individual retort. This new system is designed to improve security within the retort room and to lower the risk of product retort bypass. AllTrax can be integrated into every non-automated retort operation.
Previously, Allpax introduced a similar system for automated Allpax retort rooms. Customers and those with other brands of retorts contacted Allpax about the availability of a similar system for non-automated retort rooms where baskets are moved manually. Inquiring companies desired to better ensure that every can, jar, tray, and pouch they produced was verified to be properly sterilized and that an electronic record documented that fact.
Each basket is tagged with a human readable number and a machine-readable number, both in laser-etched stainless steel. Scanning positively identifies each basket as it moves between loading, retorting, and unloading zones of the retort room. Positive identification is cross-checked by the software-based tracking system.
Non-conforming actions are alarmed and require authorized operator resolution to clear the alarm. For example, the system will alarm if a basket fails to enter a retort or enters the wrong retort. Each basket scan triggers the tracking system to transfer a basket’s identity from one logical set of basket positions–zones–to the next. Basket checkpoints are located at each loader, retort, and unloader system in the retort room. For an extra level of security, companies can opt to have employees wear a tag, which is also scanned and links the employee to the basket.
