In response to feedback from food processors, manufacturers and packers, Loma Systems has launched Version 2 of its popular TRACS (Trending-Reporting-Analysis-Capture-Software) data reporting and analysis software.

Designed to further reduce manufacturing costs and improve production efficiencies, the new graphical network-based tool monitors the performance of the company’s full range of inspection equipment and offers better functionality, reporting and user experience. 

Like its predecessor, Version 2 of TRACS has been developed in conjunction with long-standing partner, AutoCoding Systems. It runs over a customer’s factory network and provides real time feedback across all lines in a central format for analysis and reporting of key measurements such as giveaway or metal count.

It allows factory managers to see instant machine status, examine different trends between shifts or products and quickly identify and rectify inefficiencies rather than waiting for historical information to be reported. 

It enables information relating to contaminant detection rates, weight and over-fill records to be compiled quickly to demonstrate compliance with current legislation.

Featuring a completely redesigned architecture in line with AutoCoding’s latest platforms, Loma’s TRACS boasts a new user interface, which is more reflective of modern experiences. Other key features include printable batch reports and CSV data export facility for batch and individual pack weight information. 

Both metric and imperial measurements are supported and data is provided in a user friendly graphical format for quick and easy trend analysis.

Version 2 of TRACS gathers live data from Loma’s IQ3 and IQ4 metal Detectors, CW3 Checkweighers, CW3 Combination Units and X4 and X5 X-ray inspection machines.

Live and historical batch cards hold key compliance data summaries for these units. 

The software polls the equipment and collects data, which is stored on a secure server. Factory managers can view TRACS reports via a network link using a web browser and export data to a CSV file.

The availability of real-time data from Loma CW3 Checkweighers is of particular value in recording and tracking the cost of product giveaway per line.

Line operators are able to adjust production processes quickly; so ensuring product giveaway is kept to a minimum and unit weight targets are achieved. This benefits food manufacturers’ cost centres and ensures compliance with the latest weights and measures legislation at the lowest weight possible.

Toby Kemp, Loma Systems’ Global Marketing Manager said: “The new version of TRACS has been developed in response to customer feedback for improved functionality, including better reporting and support for the complete product range. 

“By storing electronic data centrally, and with both the PDF report function and a new CSV data export facility, which allows information to be more readily circulated, it will eliminate the need for paper recording of batch results. This new version of TRACS also offers a more consistent, legible and secure format. 

“Both AutoCoding and Loma are confident that TRACS will help factories to further build a culture of continuous improvement and increase productivity by highlighting efficiency opportunities. For example, it can help food companies understand speed loss and start-up issues, as well as better understand and control their processes.”