19/06/2026
At Starflex, we enjoy solving complex product handling and inspection challenges.
Recently, we designed, built, and installed a bespoke metal detection solution for a global bakery manufacturer processing frozen baguette dough sticks at speeds of over 400 products per minute across four lanes.
The challenge:
• De-elevate product from a high-level spiral freezer
• Present product through a metal detector in perfectly singulated rows
• Reject only the affected row to minimise waste
• Maintain high hygiene standards with easy belt removal
• Ensure precise product positioning at high speed
The solution:
✔ Fixed-pitch flights combined with inline pitching wheels
✔ Fully synchronised belts and pitching wheels using timing belts and encoders
✔ Positive-drive removable belts for hygiene and pitch accuracy
✔ Controlled singulation of frozen dough sticks measuring 300 mm x 25 mm diameter
By individually pitching each dough stick, the system also provides a future pathway to individual checkweighing.
Starflex has already delivered multi-lane checkweighing solutions for similar applications, enabling high-speed individual product weighing and improved process control.
The benefits extend beyond compliance. Removing underweight products before baking and cooling can reduce wasted oven and refrigeration energy, improving efficiency and lowering operating costs.
A great example of how smart product handling and inspection design can deliver long-term operational savings while maintaining product quality and food safety.
