Apache Stainless Blog
Apache Stainless - Celebrating 50 Years!
Topics: ASME TanksCorporateLarge Vessels
Over the past five decades, Apache Stainless has grown from a small local business into a renowned industry leader, known for its expertise in design and manufacturing of stainless commercial equipment. The company’s recently expanded facility in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, includes updated technology in laser machining, product testing, and chemical finishing. This allows Apache Stainless ... Blog
Mepaco: A Legacy in Meat Processing and Pet Food Production
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentPet FoodScrew Conveyor
Since 1932, Mepaco has been a renowned name in the meat processing industry. In the pet food sector, Mepaco has collaborated with some of the fastest-growing brands both nationally and internationally, providing equipment and systems for producing wet foods, canned food, kibble, and treats. PET FOOD PROCESSING EXPERTISE Thermal Processing Mepaco’s Mixer-Cooker is a popular ... Blog
SKID Project Showcases Excellence in Engineering
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineeringSmall Portable Vessel
At Apache Stainless, we excel in project management for custom stainless vessels, including process-based solutions and contract-manufactured additions that support wide-scope projects. Recently, we undertook a critical project for a chemical manufacturer that required a small vessel integrated mobile skid with a stringent ship date. The project began with the customer providing a 2-D drawing ... Blog
Repair and Alteration of Ethanol Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsCustom VesselsDistillation ColumnsEthanolEvaporatorsPetroleumReactors
Ethanol producers have company-mandated maintenance schedules for all their production and storage vessels. When following the best prescribed maintenance processes, downtime related to repair is minimal, and the vessel’s longevity increases. When repair is needed, it is essential to ensure high-quality and efficient repair to get production back online as soon as possible. Josh Schladweiler, ... Blog
A Typical Testing Day in our Validation Lab
Topics: CookerTesting
Highlighting a typical test in this video, Mepaco technicians are working with the customer, Glier’s Goetta Sausage, to test a multi-process application, including: Grinding EffectivenessScale TestingRecipe Controls ValidationBatch TestingBroth Extraction ProcessCooking AccuracyMixing AccuracyProduct Integrity Representatives from Glier’s Sausage worked with Mepaco technicians on adjustments needed, and verification of cook and cycle times in our 100 ... Blog
Apache Milestones over 50 Years!
Topics: ASME TanksCorporateCustom Vessels
It is our 50th year in business! A lot has happened in our first 50; here are the milestones! September 4th, 1975Duane Foulkes incorporated Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation on September 4th, 1975. Duane had worked for Oscar Meyer in Madison, Wisconsin, which had a need for stainless food processing equipment. March 1976With four employees, the ... Blog
Apache Stainless Expands Manufacturing Facility to Enhance Production Capabilities
Topics: ASME TanksContract ManufacturingCorporateCustom Vessels
For Immediate Release – Apache Stainless, a leading manufacturer of highly critical stainless OEM equipment, is proud to announce the expansion of its manufacturing space by an additional 40,000 square feet, bringing the total production facility to over 200,000 square feet. This expansion is designed to optimize material flow, from incoming materials through fabrication, welding, ... Blog
Apache Columns Tour (video) and Other Highlights at FEW
Topics: BiofuelsDistillation ColumnsEthanolEvaporatorsLarge Vessels
Apache Stainless has a long-standing reputation for manufacturing distillation columns for various industries, including pharmaceutical, chemical, food, environmental, and biofuels. In the biofuels segment, Apache has produced storage and distillation columns for ethanol and alcohol byproducts, including spirits, personal care products, medical applications, food and flavoring. As a full service custom manufacturer, Apache also provides ... Blog
Food Safety and Sanitation Equipment Trends at Mepaco
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentFood SafetyMetal FinishingSafetySanitation
Mepaco® continues to see a steady demand with CIP (clean in place) options on their cookers, mixers, stuffers, screw, and belt conveyor systems. CIP technology employs a series of rinses along with high-temperature caustic washes through high-pressure spray devices. Food processors who opt for CIP on new Mepaco® equipment and systems typically opt for electropolished ... Blog
Innovative Solutions for the Pet Food Industry, from Mepaco
Topics: Pet FoodSystems
Mepaco, a leader in food processing solutions, continues to revolutionize the pet food industry with its advanced equipment and systems designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. The latest lineup includes the pallet breaker, electric tote dumper, surge loader, mixer, mixer-cooker, and pump feeder, each offering unique benefits to streamline pet food production. Pallet ... Blog
Service in the Life of Mepaco Food Processing Equipment
Topics: Field Services
Mepaco Field Services are dedicated to supporting the longevity and efficiency of your food processing equipment. Our team comprises experienced technicians, fabricators, and controls experts. InstallationMepaco’s installation services ensure efficient start-up, precise placement, and proper handling of equipment, including drainage requirements. Our team collaborates regularly with engineering firms and tradespeople, and we offer supervision for ... Blog
Revolutionary Frozen Pallet Breaker Equipment Enhances Automation and Safety
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentPallet BreakerPet Food
Mepaco, known for grinding, blending, cooking and formulation systems, is proud to announce the launch of its latest Pallet Breaker equipment (PB3000). The robust machine (15 1/2 ft W x 10 1/2 ft D x 21 1/2 ft H) is designed to automate the frozen pallet-breaking process, offering numerous benefits to food manufacturers across North ... Blog
7 Safety Considerations for ASME Stainless Pressure Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsEngineeringFinishing ServicesPharmaceuticalSanitary Tanks
When designing and manufacturing pressure vessels, it’s crucial to comply with ASME or other global standards to ensure their safety, quality, and performance. Here are 7 important safety considerations driven by ASME: 1-Material selectionIn Apache’s background, 304 stainless, 316 stainless, Duplex, Hastelloy, Monel 300, AL6XN, and Alloy 20 are the most common materials used in ... Blog
Re-Release: Reduce Lean Giveaway for Meat Processing eBook
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentMeat Processing EquipmentSystems
Mepaco, a leader in innovative food processing solutions, is excited to re-release the meat processing guide, “Reduce Lean Give-away for Processed Meats: 3 Formulation Methods.” This comprehensive guide explores three key formulation methods—testing, pre-blend, and in-line—using lean point examples. Compare 3 Formulation Methods:– Type of equipment used in each method, including application customization used in ... Blog
Introducing Mepaco's Food Processing Facility, the Validation Lab
Topics: EquipmentFood ProcessingMetering ScrewsScrew ConveyorTesting
Mepaco, part of Apache Stainless, is excited to announce the opening of its cutting-edge research and test facility, designed to support the food processing industry. The Validation Lab is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by a dual engineering and processing team dedicated to advancing food science and innovation. Key Features and Capabilities Advanced ... Blog
Introduction to Stainless Food Contact Surfaces (ebook)
Topics: Food ProcessingFood SafetyMetal FinishingSanitation
Apache Stainless is a leading manufacturer of high purity equipment for various commercial industries including pharmaceutical, medical, water filtration and food processing. Leveraging our extensive expertise in stainless knowledge and best practices, we help our customers maintain the highest quality of product contact surfaces available. Our team has republished the ebook, “Compare Stainless Finishes” as ... Blog
Video: 10 Screw Conveyor Solutions that Solve for Automation
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentScrew Conveyor
Screw conveyors can be customized to improve efficiency and automation in food processing systems. The role of screw conveyors can help drive primary processing equipment to reach the highest throughput possible. Here are the top 10 efficiency highlights of screw conveyor solutions: 1 – Pivoting InfeedPivoting screw conveyors are designed with a track and/or caster ... Blog
Manufacturing a Sanitary Vessel Series
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsFinishing ServicesPharmaceuticalSanitary Tanks
Each vessel in this sanitary series for a pharmaceutical manufacturer involved multiple processes to meet the hygienic requirements, ASME Code and CRN registration. The video showcases a behind-the-scenes look at the different stages of manufacturing this vessel series, from parts fabrication through final testing and documentation. METAL FINISHINGParts are fabricated from ASME-approved stainless material for ... Blog
eBook: Heat Transfer Capabilities for Batch Cooking Operations
Topics: ThermaBlend
The ThermaBlend Cooker is designed to cook large batches of food evenly and efficiently, with superior heat distribution and cycle times. The guide, “Cooking Efficiencies” is a deep dive into the components of ThermaBlend Cookers and Mixer-Cookers that generate heat transfer and thermal processing, including: ASME Engineering and ConstructionThe ThermaBlend Cooker’s pressurized jacket is engineered ... Blog
New ebook: Processing Automation Trends
Topics: CommunicationsCookerFood Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersSystems
Explore the latest e-book from Mepaco, “Processing Automation Trends,” which delves into a variety of cutting-edge solutions aimed at enhancing food processing efficiency and automation. The book showcases mechanical equipment add-ons, system layout and controls solutions, and focuses on the following key areas: 1 Mechanical options engineered to optimize efficiency, including seals with quick-release, air-purge ... Blog
Mepaco Answers Food Processing Need with New Electric Dumper
Topics: Electric DumperFood Processing EquipmentIndustrial Dumper
Mepaco, part of Apache Stainless, a leader in grinding, cooking and blending food processing solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its latest product, the ETD3000 Electric Tote Dumper. Responding to the industry, this robust electric dumper solves for efficiency, reliability, sustainability and ease of maintenance. Electric Tote Dumper ETD3000: A Game Changer in ... Blog
ASME R-STAMP REPAIR DO'S and DONT'S
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
Apache’s Field Service and Quality Assurance team gets frequent inquiries about ASME R-Stamp repairs and alterations. The ASME R-Stamp requirement for a repair is often determined by a consultation and investigation into the pressure zones of the vessel. When assessing a possible ASME R-Stamp repair, here are the Do’s and Don’ts according to Apache’s experts. ... Blog
Guide to Screw Conveyor Customization
Topics: EquipmentFood ProcessingMetering ScrewsScrew Conveyor
Mepaco leverages food processing system experience to provide solutions that best meet the demands of the application for optimal performance. Versatile screw conveyors solve many bulk food handling objectives from reduced sanitation costs to enabling 24/7 continuous operation. Articulating / Pivoting Screw ConveyorsScrew Conveyors can be designed with pivoting capabilities with casters or track systems ... Blog
Video: Thermal Screw Mixer-Cooker
Topics: CookerFood Processing EquipmentMixer-CookerThermaBlend
The Mixer Cooker is an important equipment solution for achieving homogeneous batch consistency and efficient large-scale cooking. In the video example, the Thermal Screw Mixer Cooker demonstrates indirect cooking technology using hot water. Heat JacketHot water circulates in the jacket and transfers heat to the product in the Mixer Cooker. The jacket is designed to ... Blog
Quick Reference Guide to Factory Acceptance Tests
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsCommercialDistillation ColumnsEngineeringEvaporatorsPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
An important part of being an ASME certified pressure vessel fabricator is the compliance and quality insurance protocols for every project. Apache Stainless has a dedicated quality assurance department that focuses on full verification, testing and documentation of compliance requirements. Our welders and inspectors are ASME certified and as a company, Apache has been ASME ... Blog
Comparing Pump Feeder Applications
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentPumping Systems
Mepaco’s pumping systems convert traditional batching methods to continuous batching systems by providing low-profile surge with the ability to continuously meter product to downstream processes. As part of a system, the Pump Feeder offers an alternative to other conveying or manual product handling. The low-profile surge allows cookers and mixers to discharge quickly while gently and ... Blog
Top 5 Challenges that Impact Production Efficiency
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentMetering ScrewsSystems
In a roundtable with field services, application engineers, and technical sales managers, these top 5 efficiency challenges are developed from experience with cooking, blending, and formulation projects in various food processing industries and installations. 1. Undersized equipment Large conglomerate customers with continuous demand for their products often work with Mepaco on scale solutions with automated ... Blog
Best Practices for Agitators in Mixing Applications
Topics: AgitatorCookerMixer-Blenders
Proper agitator design and selection will provide the best performance of the mixing and blending equipment. Considerations for specifying the agitator and overall mixing solution include: Ingredient Considerations• Size of ingredients• Condition or fragility of ingredients• Ability to dissolve• Weight of ingredients and mix• Viscosity Process Considerations• Product recipes used in the equipment solution• Mixing, ... Blog
(Video) ASME Custom Vessel Manufacturing
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsFinishing ServicesPharmaceutical Tanks
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) manage a national standard for pressure vessel construction. ASME standards for pressure vessels are applicable to design, fabrication, inspection, testing and certification. Apache followed some high-compliance vessel projects coming through our ASME facility and created a video to showcase many of the construction, finishing, assembly, and quality processes throughout ... Blog
The Making of a Fraction Vessel Series
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineeringPharmaceuticalSanitary Tanks
Apache partnered with a pharmaceutical processor with an active ingredient application, to provide a series of 24 vessels for fraction collection. Fraction is the process of capturing the eluting fluid in vessels and involves isolation of extremely purified product. The video highlights the engineering and compliance processes, vessel animation and completed vessels. The highly sanitary ... Blog
Top 10 Causes for On-Site Tank Repair
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
Here’s a top ten list from the Apache Large Tank team on the types of repairs that usually can be accomplished at the customer plant. 1. Repair Heat JacketsOne of the main causes for heat jacket repair is the quality of the water used in the steam process. If the water has heavy minerals or ... Blog
Guide to Mepaco Application Engineered Systems
Topics: CommunicationsEquipmentSystems
Mepaco provides an application approach to system solutions. Our team listens to your team to understand existing challenges and production goals for a new solution. We also appreciate that operations, engineering, and maintenance personnel have their own set of goals for a new system. We work to exceed your expectations in production, quality, workmanship, design, ... Blog
Side-by-Side Comparison of an ASME U and ASME UM Vessel
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsPharmaceuticalSmall Portable Vessel
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) defines a code of standards for the operational safety of pressure vessels. The ASME pressure vessel construction rules are very extensive including fabrication methods, construction materials, design temperature, design pressure, loading, stress values, corrosion allowances, lining, thickness, and approval of every ferrell, port and valve attached to the vessel. ... Blog
Dimple Jacket Applications for ASME Tanks and Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsLarge VesselsReactors
Thermal heat exchange surfaces control the temperature of pressure vessels and are engineered for the application and use of the vessel. While there are several methods used in engineering design of ASME vessels, the dimple jacket design supports flexibility and versatility required in some applications. Dimple jackets utilize a thin gauge stainless steel layer that ... Blog
Maintenance and Sanitation Benefits of the Mepaco Pump Feeder
Topics: Pumping SystemsSanitation
Maintenance and Sanitation Benefits of the Mepaco® Pump Feeder Attendees appreciate seeing equipment at trade shows and talking to application engineers to research solutions. Mepaco® had a DP3000 Dumper, and a 3000 K Pump Feeder set up at a past show, and recent inquiries have warranted a video repost of Pump Feeder maintenance features. The ... Blog
Comparing Food Contact Surfaces: 2B and EP
Topics: CookerFood SafetyMixer-BlendersSanitation
Mepaco’s food processing equipment solutions are engineered for the application, and with application challenges comes budget, compliance, and operational considerations. When it comes to specifying food contact surfaces, some processors require a spec to be followed and some processors are looking to fulfill sanitation and food safety goals, which might result in redefining a specification.One ... Blog
How to Select a Pump Feeder
Topics: Pumping Systems
Depending on the application, processes requiring automation often include a Pump Feeder. In limited floor space, a low-profile surge capacity Pump Feeder, that can also be gentle on the product while maintaining metered flow, is vital to the success of any process. Here are some of the application criteria that go into making the correct ... Blog
Video: ThermaBlend Cooker Capabilities Tour
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentThermaBlend
In one versatile solution, the ThermaBlend® Industrial Cooker provides excellent cooking, searing, caramelizing, chilling, sautéing, and blending. CookingThe ThermaBlend® Cooker is designed with a steam or hot water (ASME) jacket with gentle agitation that evenly heats the product through forced convection. In some applications, culinary steam is directly injected into the product to accelerate the ... Blog
Pharmaceutical Mixing Vessel Video Tour
Topics: ASME TanksSanitary Tanks
Apache is known for helping processors with custom engineered and fabricated tanks and vessels that require expertise in compliance. We commonly produce ASME vessels, API-650 tanks, evaporators, agitated vessels, clad/insulated vessels, heat exchangers and mixing tanks to customer specifications and compliance standards. In the mixing vessel shown in the video, our project engineer worked ... Blog
1 Cooker Vs 2 Cookers: What is Best for my Application?
Topics: CookerThermaBlend
Mepaco engineers cooking equipment for specific production and processing applications. While some food processing customers know the size, type, and required performance of the cooker equipment, other customers come to Mepaco for directional discussions comparing cooker production scenarios and system capabilities. Considerations for choosing one (1) cooker or (2) two cookers for your application, depend ... Blog
How to Troubleshoot an R-Stamp Repair
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
There are several reasons why a vessel may need service, however, the need for ASME R-Stamp Repair is very specific. The R-Stamp is a certification required by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessels for repair of an ASME tank or vessel. Any repairs to the pressures zones on tanks require an R-Stamp. A ... Blog
Video: Top 10 Dumper Safety Innovations
Topics: Food SafetyIndustrial DumperIndustrial High DumperIndustrial Lift DumperIndustrial Pivot Dumper
In the interest of food safety and personnel safety goals across food processing customers, Mepaco has innovated options to solve these goals. Dumpers are a part of nearly every system and can be the first process in an automated solution. With automation comes food safety and personnel safety issues that these options and features on ... Blog
Guide: Heat Transfer Surfaces EXPLAINED
Topics: ASME TanksEngineeringReactors
Thermal heat exchange surfaces control the temperature in the vessel and the quality of the contents. Jacketed vessels are used in many industries and can be used to remove the elevated heat of reaction (heat reactor vessel) or reduce the viscosity of high viscous fluids. In an updated eBook, the Apache team has fine-tuned a ... Blog
7 Steps to an Application Engineered Cooking Solution
Topics: ThermaBlend
Our equipment provides and services best fit customers who need customization for their application. In this ebook, “7 Steps to a Application Engineered Cooking Solution,” our application and technical engineers outline our process from concept to delivery, focusing on the ThermaBlend Cooker with customization resource charts. 1. Scope Definition Technical, experienced Mepaco® sales managers visit ... Blog
Guide to ASTM Stainless Finishes
Topics: Finishing ServicesSmall Portable VesselStandard Vessels
ASTM (American Society for Materials and Testing) was developed to set standards for chemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical properties of material, as well as testing standards for materials. ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) includes ASTM standards, AWS (American Welding Society) standards and other nationally and internationally recognized standards as part of a widely adapted ... Blog
When is it Time to Invest in Integrated Controls?
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentSystems
Processors upgrading production and processing equipment have a significant investment including machines, shipping, installation, and commissioning. To consider an upgrade of controls may also mean a change of procedures and processes. Food manufacturers must weigh their concerns, such as payback, capex budget, downtime, and life cycle costs. Mepaco® has helped customers with manual, entry-level, and ... Blog
ASME Heat Jackets for Cookers – Explained
Topics: Mixer-CookerThermaBlend
Mepaco® cookers are designed with ASME thermal jackets. The jackets are pressurized and therefore regulated by ASME standards. The ThermaBlend® Cooker features an ASME stay bolt (also called stay-rod) constructed jacket. Mixer-cooker equipment may also have stay-bolt or dimple jacket construction. Specifically, ASME engineering and construction requirements include approved calculations, ASME-certified techniques and fabricators, testing, ... Blog
7 Upgrades That Increase Cooker Production Right Now
Topics: Mixer-CookerThermaBlend
Over time, processors might see changes in product integrity and timing that does not reflect the quality and production times intended when the equipment was commissioned. Why is this happening? When a decrease in cooker production occurs, it points to a change in the operation, process, procedure, equipment, or even operator error. Controls Monitoring and ... Blog
Trends in Custom Vessel Manufacturing
Topics: ASME TanksGeneralLarge Vessels
In the last few years, Apache’s essential manufacturing customers have faced familiar developments in supply chain and resources. In a round table query of Apache’s sales and engineering team, here are the top 3 post-pandemic equipment trends and resource challenges experienced by our customers. 1. Solutions to Support Manufacturing Flexibility The need for flexible equipment ... Blog
Requirements for the Repair or Alteration of ASME Stainless Pressure Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
Whether an accident, environmental damage, or refurbish needs, vessel repair may be necessary at the customer site. It is important that whoever works on ASME pressure vessels is qualified, certified, and experienced. The National Board, the regulatory commission for ASME, requires an ASME R-Stamp for the repair or alteration of pressure vessels. Repair areas and ... Blog
Batching Bin System Animation
Topics: Pet FoodScrew ConveyorSystems
This animation demonstrates the modifiable Batching Bin System. Pre-broken frozen food products (red meat, fish, chicken, vegetables) are delivered to a designated surge loader on a traversing belt which locates the exact drop position. Once the recipe is established and the demand is made, the applicable surge loader(s) deliver product. Load cells are used to ... Blog
Infographic - Pet Food Bin System Solves Around-the-Clock Formulation
Topics: Pet Food
The Pet food processing industry has witnessed significant growth in the last few years, according to FPSA, Pet Food Processing Equipment Market Forecast to 2026. The study states that the growth is due to an increase in pet ownership and adoption rate and a rise in urbanization across developing countries. The changing consumer trends such as demand ... Blog
How to Plan for Mixer Blender Parts - Infographic
Topics: Mixer-Blenders
Mepaco Mixer Blenders are common equipment in food processing lines. Are the replacement parts organized properly to get the most out of your maintenance program for optimum performance? In the infographic, DARK RED signifies a part that will cause an emergency break down which will include lost product. TAN indicates parts that require a long lead time either because of custom ... Blog
Automated Dough Trough Tilter / Dumper Helps Solve for Safe and Efficient Cleaning Challenges
Topics: Baking & Snacks
This automated dough trough dumper was designed for a baking industry manufacturer that needed a solution for safe and efficient sanitation of their dough troughs as well as a safe way to make repairs to them. This dumper was designed to have a full rotation of 135° for normal sanitation requirements. In addition to this ... Blog
Infographic - Why Mepaco Mixer-Blenders are still in operation after 40 years
Topics: Mixer-Blenders
The main reasons that Mepaco Mixers have a legacy in Meat Processing is the Total Cost of Ownership, created by blend accuracy, sanitation efficiencies and proven safety features. The overlapping paddle blender will guarantee a homogeneous blend that reaches ½% deviation in less than 90 seconds of blending, resulting in: More blender turns, which increase ... Blog
Application Comparison of Stainless and High Alloy Materials
Topics: Finishing ServicesGeneral
Apache’s background in pharmaceutical, medical, water purification, and chemical industries has driven expertise in high-alloy material used in vessel construction. The process application of a vessel or tank will determine the stainless or high alloy material specified for the construction of the vessel. Apache’s experience with stainless and high alloy material includes 304, 316, Duplex, Hastelloy, ... Blog
Are Labor Shortages Driving Your Automation Needs?
Topics: Food ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentSystems
A recent article, “It’s About Labor”, published in Food Engineering magazine, processors were interviewed about the ongoing difficulties finding and retaining workers, even beyond the post pandemic labor levels. Mepaco®’s customers, too, have been driving automation conversations, so we are developing resources to share our application expertise with solutions that are semi- or fully automated. ... Blog
Guide to Planning for Just-in-Case Parts
Topics: Field ServicesParts
Even with digitized maintenance programs, taking an inventory of the food processing equipment in your plant is essential. To start, the inventory list will give you a clear understanding of the possible maintenance and parts needs throughout all processing equipment and provide scale and efficiency opportunities in your maintenance program. It is not uncommon for stainless processing ... Blog
10 Tools for a Successful Sanitary Vessel Partnership
Topics: Pharmaceutical TanksSanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
As a manufacturer of custom vessels for essential industries, including pharmaceutical, life science, and healthcare, Apache provides processors with high-quality vessels with up-front technical collaboration, engineering support, and a solid compliance direction. We bring these 10 tools to Sanitary Vessel customers: Technical Sales & Engineering Experts Apache’s experts are proficient in ASME and other compliance ... Blog
10 Ways Dumpers Can Impact Safety
Topics: Food SafetyIndustrial DumperSafety
Mepaco offers equipment products that are engineered specifically for the application required for processing, material handling, or an integrated system. Due to the food safety and personnel safety goals across food processors, Mepaco has innovated options to solve these goals. Here are 10 modifications to Dumper designs that can impact safety goals starting at the beginning of ... Blog
3 Levels of Sanitary Vessels
Topics: Pharmaceutical TanksSanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
Depending on the application, processors serving food or other hygienic industries have varying degrees of compliance requirements for custom vessels. When working with your custom vessel manufacturing partner, it is important to identify the level of sanitary compliance in the pre-engineering discovery phase. Apache defines three categories of sanitary design to help customers with the ... Blog
5 Ways to Increase the Life of Bearings
Topics: Field ServicesFood Processing EquipmentParts
With the complex demandsin food processing and production, safety, and quality, performance of every component within food equipment is critical. The bearing type and style for your Mepaco equipment has been determined by application and plant preference. Many food processing facilities utilize stainless bearings which provide corrosion resistance in wet environments. Here are some tips ... Blog
3 Ways Agitators Impact Thermal Processing Solutions
Topics: Agitator
The type and viscosity of food product, thermal processing technology, desired texture, and cooking/processing cycle times are considerations for the applied cooking/blending solution. When selecting an agitator or changing an application, review the thermal processing and blending goals. The proper agitator selection, blending action and recipe controls provide the highest level of batch productivity and ... Blog
Top 3 Indications You Need an R-Stamp Repair
Topics: ASME TanksService 360 Tanks
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) and NB (National Board) certification is an extensive procedure. An R-Stamp repair is required by the NB when the pressure vessel’s barrier is broken. These repairs include, but are not limited to, weld repairs, installation or replacement of nozzles, and attachment of components related to pressure parts. Here are ... Blog
Overcoming the 5 Most Common Processing System Bottlenecks
Topics: Food ProcessingFood Processing Equipment
Our service techs, engineers, and application experts have pinpointed the five most congested production areas in food manufacturing plants. Here are their tips for mitigating these delays, starting with the loading of a system: #1 Bottleneck: Inefficient and Ineffective Loaders A common bottleneck is slow loading times preventing the start of batch mixing or ... Blog
VIDEO: Large Tank Team Delivers BIG for Biofuel Industry
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsLarge VesselsPetroleum
Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation, a manufacturer of ASME pressure vessels, was contracted to provide four (4) large columns for a renewable energy company. Apache’s “Large Vessel” fabricators/ welders manufactured four stainless columns that measured up to 167’ in length, 11’ in width, and 112,000 lbs. in dry weight. Government and public opinion will drive growth ... Blog
10 Reasons Why Ethanol Producers Choose Apache Stainless as Their Tank Manufacturer
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsLarge Vessels
1. Specialized Expertise The number one reason for partnering with Apache for your ethanol vessel is our expertise of over 40 years supplying tanks for ethanol and biofuel production. We specialize in heat exchange surfaces, pressure vessels, custom mix tanks, evaporators, and extraction equipment made from stainless and other high alloys. 2. Custom Capacity Apache ... Blog
Sometimes Tank Damage Isn't as Bad as You Think
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
There are two main causes why a vessel may need service. There is a performance-related issue, or there has been an accident. In the case of an accident, such as a tool falling into the tank and causing damage; surface scratches and dents can typically be repaired on-site, provided they do not go beyond minimum ... Blog
7 Parts to Consider for a Planned Shutdown
Topics: Parts
According to Deloitte Institute, production has significantly increased all manufacturing sectors in the United States and continues to grow at a rate of 4% in 2022. This uptick in the manufacturing economy coupled with labor shortages across the globe continue to make material sourcing and parts management unpredictable. For planning purposes, parts that rely on ... Blog
Deep Dive into Custom Vessel Components and Compliance
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsEngineeringSmall Portable Vessel
In the e-book, “Road Map to ASME Submission“, we highlighted project engineering steps to ASME compliance for custom vessels, starting with the crucial first step of the customer consultation. The technical sales team learns information about the vessel, the industry, and the process that the vessel will serve. Answers to our inquiries will allow us ... Blog
Mepaco - 90 Years in the Making
Topics: CommunicationsMixer-BlendersThermaBlend
The Mepaco® brand has been around for a long time. The company began in 1932 and operated out of Oakland, California. The name Mepaco® stands for Meat Packers Equipment Company. For the first 40 years, Mepaco® was a significant equipment supplier to deli meat, sausage, and smoked meat processors. Mepaco® offered loaf molds and slicers, ... Blog
5 Insider Tips to Get Faster Delivery on Custom Small Vessels
Topics: Custom VesselsSmall Portable Vessel
Equipment customized to a specific process has its benefits to solve a particular need. With standard equipment, you may need to adjust your scope. It’s understandable that standard stock vessel solutions only solve for a few common applications. However, custom vessel solutions that solve a specific process may take significantly longer to spec out, design ... Blog
Project Engineering Steps to Supply a CRN Vessel
Topics: Compliance StandardsCustom VesselsEngineering
Each province or territory in Canada issues the Canadian Registration Number (CRN) by an authorized safety authority for pressure vessels and fittings that operate at a pressure rating greater than 15 psig. The CRN identifies that the design has been accepted and is registered for use in that province or territory. 1. The first step ... Blog
3 Seal Tips to Prevent Downtime
Topics: AgitatorField ServicesParts
The Mepaco®’s Field Services and Engineering Team have been on hundreds of calls for all types of food processing equipment service. Seal issues are one of the common requests for service. Here’s the top 3 trouble signs for split seal types and how to troubleshoot repair. The Trouble Signs: Product escapes or purges out of ... Blog
What is the Difference Between Bead Blasting and Electropolishing?
Topics: Metal Finishing
The process for sanitary stainless steel equipment fabrication starts with the selection of the metal and special handling of the material to prevent contamination. For many food and chemical producers, the level of finishing on processing equipment is determined by federal, state, and local regulatory agencies. In sanitary applications, the finish, as well as the ... Blog
Custom Vessel Design to Compliance - Steps to Success
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsPharmaceutical TanksSmall Portable Vessel
DESIGN TO COMPLIANCE Designing custom vessels to compliance, such as ASME or CRN, is a highly engineered approach. Certainly, manufacturers of the custom vessel must have required accreditation, but the engineering expertise goes beyond certification. The pressure vessel manufacturer must have experience and a reputation with inspectors, agencies, and governing officials to manage the compliance ... Blog
Metering Screws Drive Surge Production and Eliminate Waste
Topics: Metering ScrewsScrew Conveyor
Metering Screw Conveyors provide surge delivery to downstream equipment, allowing continuous production. Load cells can be integrated into the metering screw to use the loss-in-weight method for measuring product displacement. Metering Screws deliver and surge the correct quantity of product to the mixers, cookers, or blenders downstream as required by the recipe. CLEAN SWEEP The Metering ... Blog
Doubling Cook Batches without Doubling Footprint
Topics: CookerFood ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentThermaBlend
This featured system doubled cooking batches within a minimal footprint used well-planned equipment selection, floor layout, and controls customization. Mepaco®’s cooking system featured side-by-side ThermaBlend® cookers, with a shared maintenance and sanitation platform. SYSTEM FLEXIBILITY The multi-recipe prepared foods processor benefited from flexibility in production scenarios. The system can run two batches at once, staggered, ... Blog
New E-Book: Design to Submission Road Map
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsEngineeringSanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
Many of Apache’s customers, come to us with a full specification outline to custom manufacture their tank or vessel. For pharmaceutical, life sciences and health industries, Apache often works with integrators who add their process technology to sanitary equipment supplied by Apache. We also provide vessel solutions to end-users who have process technology support or ... Blog
New ThermaBlend® Test Cooker
Topics: TestingThermaBlend
Mepaco has a new test cooker for processors who have new products or recipes that require cooking and blending. The test cooker is a 75-gallon ThermaBlend® unit with steam injection, vacuum, pneumatic covers and doors, and dual ribbon agitators. The ThermaBlend® is designed specifically for large scale batch operations. All of the components from the ... Blog
Versatility of Dimple Heat Transfer Jackets
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineering
Versatility of Dimple Jacket Heat Transfer Thermal Processing Apache’s engineers and fabrication experts are entrusted by many national and international processors to provide complex vessels with a host of compliant-driven specifications and required quality protocols. With nearly 45 years of experience providing custom vessels, Apache has significant experience in thermal heat exchange surfaces. Heat exchange ... Blog
Animation Highlights Dumper Features that Solve for Food Safety
Topics: Ergonomic LiftIndustrial DumperIndustrial Pivot Dumper
Mepaco’s Food Processing customers often opt for custom and modifiable dumping equipment features that provide the highest level of personnel and food safety, highlighted in this animation. Locking Mechanism: Pallet Retention cylinders secure the pallet on both sides to retain its position during the dump cycle. The locking mechanism is part of the PRS (Pallet Retention System). ... Blog
Comparing Base, Mid, and High-level Sanitary Finishes (Infographic)
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsCustom VesselsFinishing ServicesSanitary Tanks
Categorizing levels of sanitary design is helpful to professionals new to compliance-regulated industries requiring custom vessels because it bridges communications regarding standards and design requirements. In hygienic applications, stainless equipment requires a sanitary finish which generally refers to a smooth, scratch-free, non-corrosive finish. The fineness of the finish, which determines its performance, is measured in RA ... Blog
Anatomy of a Sanitary Design Vessel
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsEngineeringSanitary Tanks
When evaluating a custom vessel manufacturing partner for a new project, consider the manufacturing capabilities and experience that support the vessel’s application and sanitary requirements. All custom design stainless vessels for the food, life sciences, pharmaceutical and health industries require sanitary construction. It is the application and automation that drives the level of sanitary componentry. In ... Blog
What NOT to do When an Agitator is Failing
Topics: AgitatorField Services
Many processors make their own repairs to equipment, but in the case of agitators, the repair must be sound to avoid problems in the future. Mepaco Service technicians are trained and experienced to troubleshoot shaft wear and are specialists in the repair of stainless steel. Here is a list of what not to do when ... Blog
Navigating Stainless Material and Finishes for Hygienic Vessels
Topics: Health & BeautyPharmaceuticalSanitary Tanks
Stainless Finishes for Hygienic Vessels are measured by an RA (Roughness Average) meter. Manufacturers of custom vessels for life science, health and pharmaceutical industries adhere to strict design parameters to maintain compliance in these industries. The RA is a standard for an average of peaks and valleys on the metal’s surface, measured in microinches. Here is the ... Blog
Portable Column Dumper Solves for Flexible Production
Topics: Industrial Column DumperPortable Column Dumper
There are multiple reasons to use a portable dumper equipment solution. Processors with quick turn batches and reoccurring recipe changes benefit from a portable dumper to use in multiple production areas. Some processors prefer to move equipment to designated sanitation areas. Also, the column dumper must be portable and move out of the way for ... Blog
How to Determine if your Auger / Screw Conveyor is Failing
Topics: AgitatorAuditField ServicesScrew Conveyor
If you have a transport, incline or metering screw, these conditions are symptoms of a failing auger / screw. The screw is rubbing on the wall of the tub There is a bow or wobble when running The hanger bearings are wearing out prematurely The wear pads are ground down beyond normal wear. The gear ... Blog
How to Know When an Agitator is Failing
Topics: AgitatorMixer-CookerThermaBlend
In some cases, there is a particular event that causes agitator damage such as a shovel or fork falling into a piece of processing equipment. However, there are several other signs that determine when an agitator is failing: The agitator starts developing cracks in the pipe or welds. The agitator starts rubbing the tub side wall. ... Blog
What's Right for my Operation: Pressure v. Vacuum Closures
Topics: ASME TanksSmall Portable VesselStandard Vessels
Vacuum or Pressure Closures for Small/Portable ASME Vessels Many processors come to Apache for a vessel solution in the incubation stage of their business. In some cases, they are looking for help to choose the right kind of vessel that will suit their needs and fit their budget. While Apache provides custom ASME vessels for ... Blog
Round Up on ASME Marks
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom Vessels
ASME is a leading developer of codes and standards in the mechanical engineering community. These standards enhance public safety and health as well as promote innovation. The ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) mark is a single certification marketing to signify the international mark of safety and quality. Recognized worldwide, manufacturers that provide ASME have ... Blog
When to Leverage Dual Zones in Thermal Jackets for Food Processing
Topics: CookerEquipmentFood ProcessingThermaBlend
There are various methods to heat and cool food product in cooking equipment. The application will dictate the best combination of methods and configurations ranging from stay-bolt or dimple jacket designs, to injected steam and thermal screw heating options. On equipment solutions that use a heating jacket, a dual zone design may add versatility to ... Blog
Case Story: What Can Happen When an Agitator Problem is Ignored?
Topics: AgitatorAuditField ServicesFood Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersParts
Case Story: What can happen when an agitator problem is ignored? A high-volume pet food processor utilized a Mixer/Cooker in their operations which produced 45-minute batches. The application called for 28 RPM and mixing cold product at 35 – 45 degrees. During the process of loading different ingredients into the Mixer-Cooker, a Vmag buggy fell ... Blog
4 Tips to Address Emergency Downtime
Topics: EquipmentField Services
Mepaco’s Service Team is often called out on critical downtime situations. The goal for any food processor is to prevent these situations and if they are unavoidable, mitigate the time and cost associated with the breakdown. To start with, here are the top four calls that Mepaco Services receive for emergency support: Broken Shafts Agitators are failing when ... Blog
12 Engineering Steps to Ensure ASME Compliance for Custom Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsPharmaceutical
Custom vessel manufacturing to industries requiring compliance is what we do. There is a process for customer service and engineering that is required to get the custom vessel you require for your application. Numerous specifications will be required based on your process or level of compliance. Apache will work with you to explain and provide ... Blog
VIDEO: The Affect of Manufacturing Processes on Stainless Surface Smoothness
Topics: ASME TanksPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
The particular RA (Roughness Average) value is a requirement for stainless vessel manufacturing for federal, state or local compliance agencies across many critical industries. It is a crucial standard in these industries to maintain a clean system. The instrument used in the measurement is called a profilometer, which provides an average in microinches. The smaller ... Blog
Video: 3 Levels of Sanitary Construction
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineeringSanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
Processors serving food or hygienic industries have varying degrees of compliance requirements for custom vessels solutions. The designation of “sanitary” has a wide range of definitions depending on the customer, the industry or the standard. This video is a brief overview how Apache defines a base, mid, and high-level sanitary vessels. Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation ... Blog
ASME Hygienic Vessel Construction Parameters
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsSanitary Tanks
ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) is a leading developer of codes and standards in the mechanical engineering community. ASME code section VIII details mandatory rules regarding vessel design, including engineering, manufacturing, and testing of pressure vessels. These standards enhance public safety and health as well as promote quality and innovation. Here are the ... Blog
5 Key Questions When Searching for New Cannabis Processing and Extraction Vessels
Topics: Sanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
As the Cannabis Processing industry continues to evolve, increasing regulations are following. With continuous new products and additive combinations entering the market, the sale and distribution of the products will have more regulations. The processing and production of CBD and cannabidiol components are already seeing increasing standards. When searching for a new Cannabis Processing or ... Blog
Challenges Solved by Application Engineered Solutions and Agitator Design
Topics: AgitatorThermaBlend
The Mepaco team engineers equipment and systems specific to the processing application in each thermal processing project. In mixing and blending operations, application engineering is especially important because product quality and efficiencies are at stake. The food product, viscosity, texture, cycle times, and thermal processing technology including agitator designs are considered in the best cooking ... Blog
Mepaco Parts Status Update: Just-In-Time VS. Just-In-Case
Topics: Parts
Updated 4/1/21 An uptick in the manufacturing economy, reduction of COVID restrictions, COVID vaccine availability and the Suez Canal crisis have made material sourcing and parts management unpredictable. Apache’s material supply in stainless sheet and plate are produced in the United States. Pipes, fittings, and electrical components are often produced overseas. Further, some components such ... Blog
How to Evaluate a Custom Pressure Vessel Manufacturing Partner
Topics: ASME TanksEngineeringLarge VesselsPharmaceuticalPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
Accreditations Custom and pressure vessel manufacturers must have accreditation for ASME certification. Compliance with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel code is required. Pressure vessel manufacturers must also manufacture to ASME material specifications, certificates, and welding qualifications. Other accreditations are also crucial in the pharmaceutical, life science, and health industries. Confirm all industry ... Blog
Surge Loading Metering Screw Conveyor is Key Component in 24/7 Formulation Line
Topics: Screw ConveyorSystems
The Metering Screw Conveyor with surge loading capabilities is the key equipment component in this (above) 24/7 formulation line. In the system above, pre-broken frozen food products (red meat, fish, chicken, vegetables) are delivered to a designated metering screw on a traversing belt which locates the exact drop position. Once the recipe is established and ... Blog
How to Troubleshoot a Pressure Tank
Topics: ASME TanksBiofuelsLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
There are several reasons why a vessel may need service, however, two main causes why a vessel may need service are either accident or performance related. In the case of an accident, such as a tool falling into the tank and causing damage; surface scratches and dents can typically be repaired on-site, provided they do ... Blog
General Use VS Custom Vessel: When It's Time to Consider a Custom ASME Pressure Vessel
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsSanitary TanksSmall Portable Vessel
Emerging life sciences, and health and wellness product manufacturers must carefully plan budget and start-up costs to launch their products. Many of these entrepreneurs begin production with a general use vessel. A stainless general use vessel has a lower entry price. Depending on the process and the demand for the product, general-use vessels may serve ... Blog
Why Agitator Solutions are Important to Quality and Throughput in Cooking Operations
Topics: AgitatorCookerMixer-BlendersThermaBlend
The type and viscosity of food product, thermal processing technology, desired texture, and cooking/processing cycle times are considered when specifying the agitator solution. Primary consideration for mixing or blending agitator solution begins with the ability for the food product to self-level. Agitator configurations also include scrapers with indirect cooking applications. In some applications, the agitator ... Blog
Practical Equipment Strategies to Remove Foreign Contaminants from Processing Lines
Topics: Food Grade ComponentsFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetySanitation
Large-volume automation in the meat processing industry brings a higher risk of foreign material contamination. Foreign material can include metal shavings and shards from grinders, mixers and dicers, wood and nails from pallets, and numerous other materials like plastics and glass. The following are equipment options and proper maintenance practices that can help mitigate foreign ... Blog
What is the Significance of Domestic and Foreign Stainless Steel for Original Commercial Equipment?
Topics: Large VesselsMix TanksPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
The steel material used in manufacturing commercial original equipment must fit the performance, pricing, delivery time, and quality requirements for the end-user. Industrial equipment suppliers, like Apache, must leverage relationships with mills and partnering suppliers to manage the constantly changing market. Part of the purchasing program for the stainless material program at Apache, focuses on ... Blog
What is the Difference Between an ASME U and a UM Stamp?
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsSmall Portable Vessel
Many industry-specific certifications in vessel manufacturing regulate the construction of a vessel. However, for many types of pressure vessels, ASME certification is required and may be in addition to other industry requirements due to the vessel’s geometry and pressure designation. Any tank that meets the requirements of ASME Code Section VIII can be certified. This ... Blog
Infographic - Why Processors like Mepaco's Dumping Equipment
Topics: EquipmentIndustrial Pivot Dumper
Mepaco’s Food Processing customers opt for custom and modifiable dumping equipment features that provide the highest level of personnel and food safety, including: PERSONNEL SAFETY Personnel guarding designed for the entire dump-zone footprint and safety relays that control the e-stop position; and optional pocket door designs that allow for safe fork truck access for loading and unloading. Guards ... Blog
5 Things to Consider Before Ordering a Tank
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineeringPharmaceutical TanksSmall Portable Vessel
Apache is a custom manufacturer of tanks and vessels. Due to our customized offering, we want to provide the exact vessel you need; and that might lead to many questions and back and forth responses. If you don’t have a specification list, here are 5 recommendations for you to determine when ordering a tank. 1. Determine ... Blog
Compare EP Food Contact Surfaces under 200X Magnification
Topics: Food Grade ComponentsFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetyMetal FinishingSanitation
Apache routinely conducts tests for customers and in-house studies on the benefits of electropolished surfaces on food contact surfaces. Highlighted above, is a study that compares high-end finishes under 200X magnification: 304 Stainless Steel Bead Blast Finish with readings from 35 – 45 RA 304 Stainless Steel 2B + Electropolished Finish with reading from 5 ... Blog
Maintenance Audit Discovers Repairs that Decrease Batch Time by 2 Minutes
Topics: AuditField ServicesParts
We received a request for a maintenance audit on a high volume meat processing line that is a supplier to fast food restaurant chains. The first round of inspection uncovered several maintenance issues: SYMPTOM A Pump Feeder motor kept tripping the breaker and caused constant down-time. RECOMMENDATION/REPAIR The gearbox bearings were bad and was causing ... Blog
Column Dumpers - Featuring 60 degree dump angle
Topics: EquipmentIndustrial Column DumperPortable Column Dumper
Processors should be able to focus on critical operations and not have to worry about auxiliary equipment. That’s what Mepaco’s CD1000 Column Dumper delivers; a Column Dumper that is heavily built, engineered for easy maintenance, built to strict sanitary design standards, and like our processing equipment solutions, modifiable to meet specific production requirements. The animation ... Blog
7 Parts to Consider for Holiday Shutdown
Topics: Meat Processing EquipmentParts
Here’s a quick infographic and guide with 7 common parts in food processing equipment that should be in stock for year-end / holiday shut-down maintenance. EMERGENCY 1. Motors: Extra motors can prevent unnecessary emergency shut-downs and lost production. LONG LEAD TIME 2. Agitators: Agitators are custom fabricated to your machine specification, and require longer lead ... Blog
Interactive PDF Highlights Food Safety Compliance and Processes
Topics: Food Grade ComponentsFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetySanitation
We’ve developed an interactive PDF that includes industry news and best practices, paired with Mepaco’s solutions and videos to help processors solve food safety challenges. Discover: USDA, FSIS and FSMA Compliance and Validation as it relates to processing equipment design and recommended construction Removal of foreign contaminants using modifications to system layouts and equipment Acceptable ... Blog
10 Food Processing Equipment Designs that Drive Safety
Topics: Food ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetyGeneralSafety
Safety guarding is recommended on equipment like the dumper shown in the animation. Relays control the e-stop position and if personnel trips the switch, the equipment will cease operation. This PRS (Pallet Retention System) shown on a DP3000 Dumper, and allows the combo to complete the dump cycle by separating from the pallet, limiting the ... Blog
Tech Tip: Troubleshooting Vacuum
Topics: Field ServicesPumping SystemsVacuum Stuffer
The effects of a vacuum leak can be subtle. The Mepaco equipment may appear to be holding a vacuum, yet a small leak, especially in the feed pump, will affect the performance of the machine. Look for these symptoms: Air bubbles in finished product Reduced product output rate Loss of vacuum in deaeration chamber General ... Blog
Lunch & Learn Customized to your Business
Topics: Food ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetyGeneralIndustrial Column Dumper
If you would like to learn more about food safety and sanitation equipment innovations trending in food processing equipment and systems, we are offering a Lunch & Learn presentation. Discover: Food processing equipment that is customized to specific applications and to scale System examples with animation and video that solve processing throughput Sanitation design options ... Blog
Small Vessel Scale-Up Solution Quadruples Production
Topics: Small Portable Vessel
Emerging market start-ups can have production challenges when their business takes off at a faster rate than planned. Here’s a problem that Apache helped to solve. Problem: A fast-growing botanical extraction processor was unable to produce the quantity of product needed to fulfill demand. Their process involved an imported vessel that was placed in a ... Blog
What is Your Stainless Finishes IQ?
Topics: Food Processing EquipmentFood SafetyGeneralMetal FinishingSanitation
RMS (Root Mean Square) is a standard used to diagnose machining operations and surface finish. The fineness of the finish and ultimate success of sanitation effectiveness is called RA, the roughness average, measured by height in millionths of an inch or microinches. A profilometer device determines RA values of small surface variations and calculates ... Blog
Sanitation and Safety Checklist: Time for a Review?
Topics: AuditEquipmentField ServicesFood Processing EquipmentFood Safety
An equipment safety and sanitation audit can provide direction for implementing improvement procedures and specifying equipment updates that mitigate risk and solve for safety and production goals. Here’s an excerpt from our audit checklist: Are all parts of the equipment readily accessible for inspection, maintenance, sanitation? Is there any evidence of premature wear on parts? Does the ... Blog
10 Solution Examples to Reduce Foreign Material Contamination
Topics: Food ProcessingFood SafetySafetySanitation
Every food processor has their own unique food safety challenges. Here is one process room scenario where attention to process layout, equipment modifications and training can significantly reduce foreign material contamination. Operator Training High-volume automation brings a high degree of risk for machinery fatigue and vibration. Over time, nuts and bolts will loosen and moving ... Blog
Coating Technology Improves Component Sanitation Performance
Topics: Food Grade ComponentsFood Processing EquipmentFood SafetyPartsSanitation
With rising energy and labor costs, there is a continuous need to improve operational efficiency, cut expenses, and increase uptimes. One area of improvement is to increase the life and sanitation performance of motors, gear motors and bearings. In consideration of the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), some processors choose food safe stainless motors. Stainless ... Blog
A Comprehensive Read on Heat Transfer Surfaces
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsLarge VesselsReactors
To help inform our tank and vessel customers about jacketed vessels and heat exchange surfaces, Apache shares this e-book that in-house specialists produced, “Abstract and Attributes of ASME Vessel Heat Transfer Surfaces”. Jacketed vessels are used in many industries and can remove the elevated heat of reaction (heat reactor vessel) or reduce the viscosity of ... Blog
The Meat Attachment Test Results Are In
Topics: Food SafetyMetal FinishingSanitation
We recently designed an in-house meat attachment test to determine performance of stainless finishes used in processing equipment. In a device designed by our technicians, we tested an electropolished panel on the left, a pickle passivated panel in the center and a bead blasted panel on the right. The 70% lean beef patty with an ... Blog
How to Increase the Life of Bearings
Topics: Field ServicesParts
With the complex demands in food processing and production, safety, and quality, every component within food equipment is critical. Any machinery with moving parts will utilize bearings. Here are some tips to reduce wear issues and extend bearing life: Mount the bearing correctly after maintenance. Make sure shims are re-installed and that the shaft is ... Blog
Quick Upgrades that Increase Production Right Now
Topics: AuditCookerEquipmentFood ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersThermaBlend
1. Pull more out of your grinder Ask your grinder experts about an upgrade kit to address a different plate configuration to increase throughput. If you do not have a level sensor, contact your controls partner to add controls to turn off the grinder before it runs dry. A continuous flow of meat product will ... Blog
5 Common Bottlenecks that Impede System Yield Goals
Topics: Meat Processing EquipmentMixer-Blenders
Our service techs, engineers and application experts have pinpointed five most-often congested production areas and processes observed in food manufacturing plants: 1. Underperforming grinders Grinders underperform due to dull plates and knives and other worn parts. Adjustment of the HP/RPM/Pitch can be made to increase capacity. If not properly maintained, the pin and bushing will ... Blog
Compare Quality and Price with Apache Standard Vessels
Topics: Standard Vessels
Apache offers a line of standard stock pressure vessels ranging from one to 37.4 gallon capacity. Our stock tanks feature large mouth oval opening, molded rubber bases on our 9-inch (model 90) tanks and pickle passivated finishes. In addition to our stock tank offering, we also offer options such as small mouth closures, stainless steel ... Blog
How to Plan for CRN in your Next Tanks or Vessel Project
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsEngineering
CRN is a Canadian Registration Number issued by each province or territory of Canada for the design and manufacture of boilers, pressure vessels and fittings to be shipped for use in Canada. It is important to note that each province and territories have unique application criteria for CRN. Some fittings, piping and components are pre-approved ... Blog
Ask the Experts-At Process Expo-The ThermaBlend Cooker
Topics: ThermaBlend
This ThermaBlend Cooker is available for customer on-site testing and we are glad to have it on display at Process Expo. In the video, Tom Hoffmann takes you on a tour of the features of this machine in our “Ask the Expert” video series that we are posting daily at Process Expo. Be sure to ... Blog
Ask the Experts - at Process Expo - the Screw Conveyor
Topics: Screw Conveyor
We are highlighting the Screw Conveyor on display at the Process Expo in this video. This particular screw conveyor was customized for a specific pet food processing application. Mepaco is fortunate to have all this equipment available this year to bring to Chicago. Scroll up and down in this blog to watch other videos in ... Blog
Ask the Experts-At Process Expo-the Pump Feeder
Topics: Pumping Systems
It was great to be able to display this customized Pump Feeder at Process Expo – Chicago. This video is one of several in an “Ask the Expert” series that highlights show equipment. In this video, Cory Buchholz does a walk-though of the Pump Feeder which is part of a system display with the DP3000 ... Blog
Ask the Experts - at Process Expo - The Lab Mixer
Topics: Mixer-BlendersTesting
Tom Hoffmann, Director of Mepaco Sales, gives a tour of a lab mixer at Process Expo. The lab mixer was engineered and manufactured for UW-Madison’s new meat science lab. The equipment is being donated for their new facility and educational center opening 2020. This video is part of a series called “Ask the Experts” to ... Blog
Ask the Experts - At Process Expo - DP3000 Dumper
Topics: Equipment
Mepaco is exhibiting this week at Process Expo at McCormick Place in Chicago – booth S2024! To promote our event, we are hosting a daily series on Ask the Experts and highlighting the equipment in our booth. Our first video is in the DP3000 Dumper with a tour given by Cory Buchholz.
Custom Vessels for Extreme Compliance Industries
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsPharmaceuticalPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
The Small / Portable Vessel group produces specialized ASME vessels that customers need for their extremely regulated processes. Apache manufactures custom mix tanks, storage tanks, jacketed vessels, heat exchange surfaces, extraction equipment. The Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation employs experts and artisans in the fabrication of stainless equipment for a range of industries. Our expertise in ... Blog
Tech Tip Download: 3 Seal Trouble Signs
Topics: Field ServicesParts
Mepaco’s Field Services team have developed a quick-read download on the seal trouble signs that our technicians see in food processing plants. Also Learn about and compare Mepaco recommended seals commonly used on our equipment. Download the Tech Paper to learn about the Top 3 Seal trouble signs and what to do to fix them: 1. ... Blog
5 Hard to Find Fabrication Processes that are Under One Roof
Topics: Contract Manufacturing
Apache has extensive in-house fabrication processes and machines required to make our tanks and vessels. The same machines and know-how are used in our contract manufacturing group to produce anything from repeatable parts to full assemblies. These processes are all under one roof at Apache Stainless in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. 1. ASME certified high-quality welding, specializing ... Blog
Comparing Kettle Cooking to ThermaBlend Cooking
Topics: CookerThermaBlend
Introducing our video: Comparing kettle cooking to the ThermaBlend® Cooking Process. This video explains the heat transfer differences between a traditional kettle cooker and the ThermaBlend®. It also highlights some of the capabilities of the cooker that make it such a versatile solution for large batch cooking, such as: Efficient agitators and patented scraper system ... Blog
When Do You Need an ASME R-stamp for Repairs to an ASME Tank?
Topics: ASME TanksLarge VesselsService 360 Tanks
The ‘R’ stamp is issued by The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors for the alterations or repairs of steam boilers. This certification helps ensure that such alterations or repairs are only done by capable fabricators who can meet the requirements of the code. It is the responsibility of the owner or user ... Blog
Horizontal Screw Conveyors Provide Bulk Handling for Many Industries
Topics: Food ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentScrew Conveyor
Mepaco’s screw conveyors are engineered to the requirements of the food processing application. In the photo, these screw conveyors transported pet food. The conveyor in the foreground was placed after the grinder and transported ground product. The conveyor in the background was utilized before the grinder. It featured a trough design that handled large meat ... Blog
Proper Operational Procedures Improves Dumper Performance
Topics: EquipmentField ServicesIndustrial Column DumperIndustrial DumperIndustrial High DumperIndustrial Lift DumperIndustrial Pivot DumperPortable Column Dumper
Depending on the complexity of the equipment and controls, there are a few options for production personnel to learn how to operate the equipment. The manual explains the operation of the equipment and its components. The customer can visit Apache for training and testing or contract with Mepaco Field Services for on-site training. In one example, the production ... Blog
Accumulation Solutions Solves Bottleneck for Pet Food Processor
Topics: Food ProcessingPet FoodPumping SystemsScrew Conveyor
Problem A Pet Food Processor needed to increase throughput due to production delays in waiting for grinders feeding directly to blenders. Solution Mepaco engineered a solution that placed surge loaders between the grinder and the blender, allowing the processor to accumulate and stage a full batch of products to be fed into the blender. This ... Blog
The Specialty Services of Apache's Contract Group
Topics: Contract Manufacturing
Apache has extensive in-house fabrication processes and machines that are required to make our vessels, tanks and custom equipment. The same machines and know-how are used in our contract manufacturing group to produce anything from repeatable parts to full assemblies. Expertise: Parts requiring multiple processes Heavy industrial components Large format fabrication High compliance metal finishing ... Blog
New Video: Mepaco Dumper Equipment Configurations
Topics: Industrial Column DumperIndustrial High DumperIndustrial Lift DumperIndustrial Pivot Dumper
Mepaco offers a range of dumper configurations that are customized for specific applications in food manufacturing environments. Column Dumper CD1000 The Column Dumper CD1000 is designed for buggies with a standard working capacity up to 600 lbs. High Dumper HD3000 The HD3000 has a 3000 lb. capacity with a high discharge height specification. Lift Dumper LD3000 The ... Blog
New E-Book: Factory Tests and ASME Certifications Explained
Topics: Compliance StandardsEngineeringGeneralSanitary Tanks
An important part of quality assurance is the process of manufacturing a vessel and the completion of required certifications to meet ASME compliance. Equally important is the understanding of these processes and procedures, by all parties from project engineering manager to purchasing teams. Apache’s quality experts have put together a informative resource on factory tests ... Blog
Why Choose Mepaco for Replacement Parts and Service
Topics: CommunicationsField ServicesField Services WidgetParts
Here are the top three reasons why spare and replacement parts should be purchased from Mepaco, your equipment supplier. Quality and accuracy. While spare parts can often be found from all types of online and catalog suppliers, will they be the quality parts needed to function properly in Mepaco equipment? Parts ordered from Mepaco are ... Blog
New White Paper: Comparing Agitator Solutions
Topics: AgitatorFood ProcessingFood Processing EquipmentMeat Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersThermaBlend
Mepaco has recently published a new white paper, “Comparing Agitator Solutions for Food Processing Applications”. The paper, developed in collaboration with sales, engineering and applications teams, is a guide for agitation solutions in Cookers, Mixers, Blenders and Drop Tanks. In the white paper, there are many details about the technology of agitators, highlighting: ribbon, paddle, ... Blog
Controls Showcased at Process Expo
Topics: ControlsPumping SystemsSystems
At the Process Expo, we had a chance to showcase our electrical controls capabilities on the PosiFlo Automatic Chub Loader. In the video, Jason Hicks demonstrates the HMI (Human Machine Interface) capabilities programmed into the pumping system. In the demo, there are monitoring devices that measure and correct product level, pumping pressure, loading efficiencies and ... Blog
A Tour of the New PosiFlo Automatic Chub Feeder
Topics: Pumping Systems
The PosiFLo is on display at the Process Expo. A new solution for loading chub machines, the PosiFlo is an automatic chub loader system that can be integrated with most types of chub forming machines. In the video, Tom Hoffmann gives a tour of the features and many benefits of the equipment. It was engineered ... Blog
How can custom modified equipment solve for process efficiencies? Ask Mepaco Experts
Topics: ControlsFood Processing EquipmentSanitationSystems
Are you planning on going to Process Expo? Click here to see our show page! We are highlighting systems and showing you how smart system designs and modified-to-order equipment, customized to specific applications, solves for processing goals: – Increased Yield Performance – Optimal designs for maintenance and operation – Increased sanitation efficiencies – Vigilant food ... Blog
Benefits of Passivation and Electropolishing
Topics: Contract ManufacturingFinishing Services
Pickle passivation is the immersion of metal in a nitric-hydrofluoric acid bath. Pickled stainless material has a light matte appearance. Benefits include ease of sterilization and corrosion resistance. Electropolishing is the immersion of metal in a charged bath of sulfuric and phosphoric acid. Benefits include ease of sterilization, improved cleaning properties, corrosion resistance and a ... Blog
New Animation: Clean Sweep Surge Loader
Topics: Food ProcessingMetering ScrewsScrew Conveyor
Mepaco’s Clean Sweep Surge Loader offers a solution that mechanically clears food product between batches on surge loading applications. In the animation, paddles sweep the sides of the tub and continually push product into the feed screw. The spin ridge keeps product from barreling, maintaining positive conveyance until the food product is completely unloaded. This ... Blog
Large Vacuum Mixer Blender part of Meat Processing and Forming Line
Topics: Meat Processing EquipmentMixer-Blenders
This 8000 lb. Mixer Blender is equipped with vacuum and CO2 injection, required for downstream forming and packaging operations. Mepaco’s Mixer Blenders are engineered to specific application parameters. These industrial mixing solutions are code-stamped and ASME rated, with high-pressure dimple or stay-bolt jackets. Cooling jackets or injection systems, like in this Mixer Blender, are also ... Blog
24" Diameter - 150 Liter Mixing Pharma Tank
Topics: ASME TanksCompliance StandardsCustom VesselsMix TanksPharmaceutical Tanks
In the video, this 150 liter mixing Pharmaceutical Vessel has a bottom mag mixer that comes with a stainless steel control panel, touch screen with speed control. There are numerous sanitary ports for add-ins, CIP spray ball, and sight glass with LED light. The interior surface materials and welds are all ground and polished with ... Blog
Dumper with Optional Pallet Retention
Topics: Food SafetyIndustrial DumperSafety
In the photo, the DP3000 is shown in different stages as the pallet is separated from the combo during the dumping process. This system reduces the risk of foreign matter getting into the food stream and contaminating the food production process. This dumper also features liner retention which prevents the liner from separating from the ... Blog
New Animation: Watch Mepaco’s Pre-Blend System for Formulating Ground Meats
Topics: Food ProcessingMeat Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersMixer-Grinders
Designed by the Mepaco group, this system (above video) was engineered to formulate ground meats. It addresses the customer’s production goals for speed, flexibility and accuracy with the utmost attention to a safe and sanitary design. In addition, the system provides efficient transfers that reduce transport time and eliminates transfer issues that result in ... Blog
Two Local Companies Work Together to Solve Need for Increased Production and Storage
Topics: Custom VesselsFood & BeverageSanitary Tanks
Brakebush Brothers, a leading processor of chicken products, worked with Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation to design, fabricate and deliver a new 20,000 gallon fresh oil tank for their Westfield, Wisconsin plant. David Meyer, Utilities Manager at Brakebush, needed a new storage tank to keep up with production demands and chose Apache Stainless for it’s ... Blog
Dual Cook System Solves Flexibility for Production Scenarios
Topics: Continuous CookersFood ProcessingThermaBlend
DUAL COOK SYSTEM SOLVES PRODUCTION FLEXIBILITY & CAPACITY THE CHALLEGE A multi-recipe prepared foods manufacture required an increase in cooking production and the flexibility to add more varieties of soups and sauces to their product offerings. The application required cooking and blending of viscous food product with limitations in available floor space. THE SOLUTION The ... Blog
Comparing Metal Finishes used in Sanitary Design Equipment
Topics: Food SafetyMetal FinishingSanitation
In the photo are samples that we provide to customers to show the different types of finishes available in the design and manufacturing of equipment for industries that require a high degree of sanitation. From the left: 2B Finish: Has common corrosion resistance properties, heat resistant, smooth (not brushed) steel. The RA (roughness average) is ... Blog
New Video Animation: A Demonstration of the Articulating Screw Elevator
Topics: Screw Conveyor
The Mepaco group has expertise in manufacturing screw conveyor systems for many food industries and applications. The articulating screw conveyor is part of the customizable product offering that includes screw feeders and surge loaders. In the video, the articulating screw conveyor is animated to demonstrate: Lowering and elevating capabilities for safe and efficient sanitation and ... Blog
Mepaco Dumper Equipment: New Options Improve Food Safety
Topics: Food SafetyIndustrial DumperSafety
Mepaco’s Pallet Retention System (PRS) is an option on Dumper equipment that reduces the risk of foreign matter like wood and nails from contaminating your food production process. A manual or optional pneumatic clamp safely secures the combo throughout the dumping process. As the dump cycle begins, the pallet is immediately secured so once the combo reaches 90-deg, the combo ... Blog
New White Paper: Heat Transfer Surfaces for ASME Tanks and Vessels
Topics: ASME TanksCustom VesselsEngineeringLarge VesselsReactors
The Apache Large Tank and Small Vessel team has developed a new white paper to serve as a general guide to ASME vessel heat transfer surfaces. The white paper highlights three basic types of external jacketed heat transfer surfaces: conventional jacket, half pipe and dimple jacket, which are welded to the outside of the vessel. ... Blog
Polymer Bearings: Mepaco’s Customers Showing Promising Results
Topics: EquipmentField ServicesParts
With the sophisticated demands in food processing and production, safety and quality, every component within food equipment is critical. Any machinery with moving parts has friction and ‘wear’ issues, and to accommodate most equipment uses a standard bearing. But in applications where the standard bearings compromise food contact areas, Mepaco offers the polymer bearing. Standard ... Blog
Ergonomic Stainless Lifts are Easy to Use
Topics: EquipmentErgonomic Lift
Mepaco offers two models of lifts that meet most manual pallet lift or product lift operations. In the video, Mepaco’s Greg Gruber demonstrates the EZL2500 lift in our manufacturing facility. The EZ4000 Product / Pallet Lift handles up to 4000 lb. loads and raises to any level up to 36 “ for ergonomic comfort. This ... Blog
Magnetic Grate: Another Safeguard Against Contaminants
Topics: EquipmentFood Safety
Magnetic grates help to remove ferrous metal contaminants from flowing gravity-fed product streams in processing equipment. In the video demonstration, a pen adheres to the magnetic grate, which is part of a screw elevator system. The grate is also easily cleanable for sanitation with the magnet constructed inside the stainless tube. The magnetic grate in ... Blog
Apache Tank Heads Deliver Extreme Compliance to Pharmaceutical Processors
Topics: EngineeringGeneralPharmaceutical TanksSanitary Tanks
Apache recently completed a tank order of more than 20 specialty tanks for a pharmaceutical manufacturer. Eleven different designs were produced under strict guidelines for sanitation requirements and governing regulations. Customized Tank Heads: ASME 24” pressure manway with center mounted agitator fitting Mechanically polished inside and out, with additional electropolish finish inside Fully polished alcoves ... Blog
A Video Walk-Through of the Auger Cart
Topics: GeneralPumping Systems
At a recent trade show, here is a video walk-around tour of the Auger Cart on display. Features: 3000 lb. dual screw auger cart with pump discharge Available with single or double screws with optional leveling ribbons Sanitation steps Safety guarding with hinged grating for accessibility Electropolished finish on product contact surfaces Positive displacement pump ... Blog
Video Walk Through of the Articulating Conveyor at Process Expo
Topics: GeneralScrew Conveyor
Here is a video walk-through, given by Roy Howe of Mepaco, of the Articulating Conveyor that made it’s way to the Process Expo this year. Highlights: Lowering / Elevating capabilities for safe and efficient sanitation and maintenance Pivoting capabilities to promote versatile production possibilities Electropolished screw and food contact surfaces for sanitation effectiveness Magnetic safety ... Blog
Automated Samples Saves Down Time
Topics: EquipmentMeat Processing EquipmentMixer-BlendersSystems
The integration of a Vacuum Sampling System in a Mixer / Blender is an efficient way to take product samples. There is no need for equipment and production stops because the vacuum sampler is automatic and can be delivered at different intervals to provide a true test of product consistency. Compared to manual sampling, the ... Blog
Batch Cooking and Chilling that Tastes Like It Came from Mom’s Kitchen
Topics: EquipmentFruits & VegetablesThermaBlend
In the process of manufacturing fruit pie filling, the ThermaBlend™ first cooks the product to 185°F; then cools it to the proper filling temperature of 75°F. The cook step and the chill step take approximately 30 – 40 minutes each, which is critical to maintaining product integrity and reaching the production goals of this application. ... Blog
Mepaco’s 170 Mixer-Blender is an Effective Part of any Emulsifying Line
Topics: EquipmentMixer-Blenders
A recent shop floor walk through shows a Mepaco Mixer-Blender discharging into a Pappas Emulsifier. The large chute directs product discharging out of the Mixer-Blender into the cutting head of the emulsifier. Once the product is emulsified to the desired consistency, it can then be transferred to a linker, former or surge vessel. In this ... Blog
What is the difference between pickle passivation and electropolishing?
Topics: Finishing ServicesSanitary Tanks
The main difference between pickle passivation and electropolishing is the appearance and RA (roughness average) of the stainless material. In the photo, an electropolished sample is shown above a pickle passivated sample. The pickle passivated sample has a white appearance, while the electropolished sample has a mirror-like, shiny finish. Pickle Passivation is the immersion of ... Blog
EZL-2500 Wide Wing Lift Provides Flexible Access
Topics: EquipmentErgonomic Lift
The EZL-2500ww (wide-wing) is a low profile lift that can be loaded from the floor level with a pallet jack or fork truck. The wide wing model is designed with the cylinders located under the platform to allow manual operator access from all sides for loading and unloading. This unit is accommodates 42” x 48” ... Blog
Clean-Sweep Surge Loader System Modified for Food Product Flexibility
Topics: Equipment
This surge loader was engineered to accept up to 4000 lbs. of bulk food product with metered delivery to downstream operations. In this design, the hopper is offset from the discharge screw, which allows a “clean sweep” of the agitator against the hopper preventing product bridging. During the FAT (Factory Acceptance Test), 99% of the ... Blog
Side Agitated Vertical Tank Serves as Large Stock Pot in Sauce Processing Application
Topics: Food & BeverageMix Tanks
This side agitator was engineered to mix food products with a high percentage of solids and viscosity in the processing of soups, sauces, marinades and gravies. The 2500 gallon tank acts as a large stock pot as part of the manufacturing process. On the left photo, the tank (shown horizontal during manufacturing) was equipped with ... Blog
Food Product Bulk Dumper Equipment Customized for Extreme Sanitation Protocols
Topics: EquipmentIndustrial Pivot DumperSanitation
Designed and manufactured by Mepaco, this pivot dumper has a high load infeed because of the dump elevation and limited ceiling height available at the customer’s food processing facility. This dumper features a pneumatic combo hold down, with options for additional sanitary surfaces to meet the demands of the caustic and aggressive cleaning procedures. Due ... Blog
Apache’s Custom Capabilities Delivers All Sizes
Topics: EvaporatorsLarge VesselsSmall Portable VesselStandard Vessels
Apache fabricates tanks from one gallon to more than 165,000 gallon capacity that are custom fabricated for processors and manufacturers all over North America. In the photo, the large distillation tank has been loaded on the trailer is embarking to Canada. It is 9 ft. in diameter, 137 ft. long and weighs in at 160,000 ... Blog
Screw Conveyor Solves for Fast Cooling While Inclining Bulk Product
Topics: EquipmentScrew Conveyor
Mepaco engineers a solution for metering cooked product to an elevated position while continuously reducing product temperature. This screw conveyor system is equipped with CO2 snow horns and exhaust and can regulate the flow to maintain optimum displacement and temperature control. Having the ability to remove energy during product transfer helps to increase production efficiencies. ... Blog
Steam Options on ThermablendTM Cookers Designed to Suit Different Applications
Topics: EquipmentThermaBlend
The above illustration shows the direct and indirect steam capabilities that exist with both the single and double agitated ThermaBlend™ batch cookers. In the process of indirect steam heating, steam is injected into the ASME thermal outer jacket and heats the product through conduction. Since there is no added moisture to the product, the potential ... Blog
Auger Cart Provides Production Efficiencies for Pet Food Manufacturer
Topics: EquipmentPet FoodPumping Systems
Mepaco’s augers and pumping systems eliminate the need for batching by automating product transfers between production processes. The cart highlighted in the photo was customized for a specific bone-in chicken processing application. Due to a stringent plant floor layout, the cart was modified to cover the gear boxes during the product dumping cycle from an ... Blog
Stainless Meat Vats and Bins Built for Rigorous Use
Topics: DairyEquipmentMeat Processing Equipment
Mepaco’s stainless steel vats, buggies and troughs are engineered to endure the rigors of continuous use and abuse that exists in meat and food processing production environments. Each unit is designed to meet or exceed the USDA, BISSC, and AMI standards for sanitary design. Mepaco offers custom stainless steel vats built to the customer’s requirements. Our vats ... Blog
Apache’s Large Vessel Team Delivers BIG for Canadian Oil Sands Production
Topics: Distillation ColumnsPetroleum
Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation, a manufacturer of ASME pressure vessels, was contracted to provide two large falling film evaporators for a Canadian oil processing operation. Apache’s “Large Vessel” fabricators/ welders manufactured the two evaporators, made from 2205 and 2304 duplex materials that were each 13 ft. in diameter and 127 long. Each evaporator has an ... Blog
Dumper Equipment Video and Brochure Updates
Topics: EquipmentIndustrial Pivot Dumper
Mepaco has recently updated Dumper Equipment information on our website at www.mepaco.net! We have added new videos, photos and brochures on the Dumper web pages. The video link above is a general overview of the types of dumpers that Mepaco manufactures including the HD3000 High Dumper, the LD3000 Lift and Dump, the DP3000 Pivot Dumper ... Blog
Side Lift Dumper Provides Alternative Access in Challenging Plant Floor Layout
Topics: EquipmentIndustrial Dumper
The Side Load Dumper is typically specified in applications where access is limited due to challenging floor layouts or overhead structures. The DP (pivot) and HD (high) dumper series have the option of loading both “in-line” or from the side. The Side Load Dumper, which can be designed in a left or right-side configuration, delivers ... Blog
Mepaco’s 11-09 Grinder Reduces Cycle Times and Delivers Low Deviations in Product Quality
Topics: EquipmentMeat Processing EquipmentMixer-Grinders
Mepaco’s 11-09 Grinder was recently on-display at the Process Expo this past November. As a follow-up to inquiries, here are some highlights of this equipment: 3,000 lb. hopper capacity, based on 50 lbs. per cubic foot 6” schedule 80 shaft piping with 3/4” thick paddle agitation Agitator motor: 7 1/2 HP flange mounted wash down duty ... Blog
Food Processing Equipment Tests Prove-Out the Most Efficient Production Efficiencies
Topics: AuditContinuous CookersEquipmentTesting
Mepaco, the food processing group of Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation, has three cookers available for testing as a courtesy to customers. A 50 gal single agitated ThermaBlend Cooker A 75 gal double agitated ThermaBlend Cooker A small continuous cooker The ThermaBlend “batch” Cooker offers a superior thermal processing solution with excellent cooking, cooling and blending ... Blog
Apache Tank Donation Prepares MATC students for Bio-Engineering Careers
Topics: CareersCorporateGeneral
Madison Area Technical College engineering students presented their class project, a bio-diesel blending system, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison May 8th, 2013. Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation donated the tank used in the project and the biodiesel system will also be shown at collegiate fairs and educational outreach events. The Madison College engineering students were tasked ... Blog
Apache Custom Stainless Tanks Support Growing Biofuel Industry for Sanimax
Topics: BiofuelsGeneralLarge Vessels
Sanimax, a leading rendering and renewing process company, partnered with Apache Stainless Equipment Corp. to provide stainless steel tanks to support growing production of B100 Biodiesel fuel. The Sanimax facility in DeForest, Wisconsin is dedicated to the processing of 100% renewable Biodiesel fuel. Apache supported their need for increased capacity by supplying one atmospheric stainless ... Blog