With nearly 40 years of experience working with customers in the food processing industry, BSC Product Manager Troy Markland has become a Power Transmission connoisseur — managing a substantial portfolio of chain, pulleys, taper locks, sprockets, and ironware that will see a product from harvest, to processing, to the shelf of a local supermarket.
Troy’s role requires him to understand the processes that turn produce into product. “I oversee a lot of post-harvest food processing applications, which includes micromanaging every aspect of processes, thorough measurements of equipment, and taking care to follow up quickly on customer orders,” says Troy. “Whether it’s a pie or a loaf of bread, it all starts with the raw ingredients that are sourced from a farm.”
Australian agriculture is in unprecedented times, according to Troy. A robust harvest season has seen an increase in demand for power transmission products, impaired by the overseas logistical challenges and shortages of shipping containers which have placed a strain on product lead times.
In response to this, BSC has been working with partners like Fenner® who have good stock coverage to fulfill customer orders. “Our partnership with Fenner® positions us well to get ahead of potential ordering issues because they are one of the most versatile suppliers we work with,” says Troy. “Fenner’s practical drive solutions are ideal for a range of applications found in food processing facilities.”
Coming out of the field, fresh produce gets cold washed on conveyors before being moved to peeling, slicing, and packaging. Fruits and vegetables may go through preparation processes such as preserving, cutting, canning, and cooking.
“The Fenner v-belt, pulley, and taper lock products are suitable for applications that can be found on food processing plant operations such as conveyor drives, coolers, washers, pumps, compressors, fans, blowers, and heat extraction units,” highlights Troy. “This is due to anti-static, temperature and moisture resistant materials that can withstand variable processes.”
Specifically, there are three core products in the Fenner range that Troy suggests as staples for the food production industry: The Fenner® Classic V Friction Belt, the Fenner® Friction Pulley, and the Fenner Taper Lock® bush system.
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