Stable Micro Systems Adds New Customisation to Volscan System

The new Universal system features a 100mm diameter base with an array of support pins of differing thicknesses and lengths that can be selected according to the product.

Sep 8 2010 --- Stable Micro Systems, leading manufacturer of texture analysis instrumentation, has launched a Universal Product Support system that extends the flexibility of the popular Volscan Profiler. Bakery manufacturers can now customise their equipment to enable bespoke testing of baked products in a wide range of shapes and sizes.

The Volscan Profiler is a bench top instrument that performs rapid and repeated non-contact volume analysis of breads and morning goods. The new Universal system features a 100mm diameter base with an array of support pins of differing thicknesses and lengths that can be selected according to the product. Vertical sample stability is provided without damaging the sample structure, giving a highly accurate dimension and volume measurement.

Items are vertically mounted and rotated in the Volscan Profiler as a laser scans the contours of the sample. Properties such as dimension, texture, weight, centre of gravity and contact area with the base will determine the support needed. Soft yet heavy product such as cake calls for medium-length spikes to be positioned wide apart to avoid sagging, whereas products with little base contact like baguette require a row of small thin spikes.

Measuring volume and related parameters allows millers and bakers to gather and analyse consistent data on sample characteristics, and make informed decisions on quality control and product development based on quantitative data. The Volscan Profiler generates 2D and 3D results of the sample, while a comprehensive software system captures and displays data in spreadsheets for easy retrieval and comparison of results. Customers can download all the latest software updates free of charge via the Stable Micro Systems website.

Jo Smewing, applications manager at Stable Micro Systems explains: “Our new Universal Product Support gives customers the freedom to adjust the Volscan Profiler support rig according to their specific requirements. The Universal Product Support is an effective solution to guarantee vertical stability to a wide range of test samples, without causing damage to its structure.”

One of Stable Micro Systems’ wide range of texture analysis tools for use in the bakery sector, the Volscan Profiler is available in a scaled-down format for smaller items, such as muffins and croissants. Other instruments in the range include the Dobraszczyk Roberts dough inflation system and the Bread V Squeeze rig for bread springiness.