GEA introduces a new cut master generation packed for better performance and control

The new Cut Master incorporates many customer-driven technology upgrades. One of those is an integrated AC drive. The flexibility, reliability, hygienic properties, and longevity of the machine have been further enhanced by the innovations.

Based on over 80 years of experience in engineering bowl cutters, the new developments featured in the Cut Master Generation 3 build on this heritage by focusing on customer requirements and leveraging GEA's experience and technical excellence to offer best-in-class cutting technology. According to Thorsten Blazer, director of sales management and sales support at the GEA production site in Wallau, Germany, the numerous innovations result in a machine that is one of the most technologically sophisticated models on the market. "Even though our previous machine already delivered excellent performance and reliability, listening closely to our customers encourages us to create new options and unlock potential for improvement on a high technical level in a market-oriented way. We have succeeded very well here and it makes our new Cut Master Generation 3 certainly unique, also in combination with digital products".

Integrated AC technology

The new CutMaster Generation 3 comes with integrated AC technology as standard. Since everything is built-in and there is no external cabinet or connecting cables, the machine's overall footprint is reduced. Thanks to the ease of regulating power delivery, the AC drive offers greater flexibility. The AC motors rely on cutting-edge technology and are maintenance-free.

Customer-led design

The CutMaster has been adjusted to the customer needs of the future. A reinforced machine frame and knife shaft bearing arm reduce vibration. What's more, the optimized hydraulic unit ensures more convenient adjustment and easier maintenance. On the hygiene front, improvements span a reduction in hidden voids, new door, and cover seals as well as an additional access flap – all of which contribute to a cleaner environment and easier wash-down. The machine meets 3-A sanitary standards, the highest level of design and fabrication. Optional hygiene packages are available to meet customers' requirements.

Better control

CutMaster Generation 3 machines are also equipped with an upgraded control system, including a new standardized user interface employed on all other GEA equipment, such as mixers and grinders. This means operators are less likely to commit errors as they switch effortlessly between units. In addition, the software boasts a range of new features, such as advanced heating and cooling options as well as an optional offline recipe editor. Thanks to the latter, customers can export recipes to a PC for adjusting before returning them to the system, which is much easier than fine-tuning them on the shop floor.

Performance Plus online condition monitoring

An optional extra, GEA's new Performance Plus predictive and preventative maintenance system uses advanced online condition monitoring to measure machine performance. With this information, customers can plan maintenance schedules, reduce costs, improve machine uptime and maximize productivity.

Monthly reports and daily alerts

PerformancePlus generate a monthly status report that tracks the machine's general condition, level of optimization, and energy consumption, in addition to supplying GEA with the requisite information to proactively initiate remote support where necessary. It also provides a daily overview of any preventative or predictive alerts triggered so that customers can respond quickly to time-critical maintenance needs and production process parameters.

Available with or without a vacuum, the CutMaster Generation 3 retains all its trusted features while benefiting from innovations. Using a vacuum helps create a finer product with a better taste and color as well as fewer air bubbles and jelly deposits, contributing to longer shelf life. As with previous models, both the standard and vacuum options come in four sizes – 200 L, 325 L, 500 L, and 750 L – and different performance levels. The upshot is that they are sufficiently flexible to handle a wide range of cutting, emulsifying, chopping, mixing, vacuuming, cooking, and cooling operations.

GEA at IFFA, Hall 8, Booth G20