IR heating systems

Two carbon infra-red heating systems from Heraeus Noblelight are helping to ensure consistent chocolate quality at Kinnerton Confectionery. One is used to pre-heat chocolate moulds prior to filling; the other to melt chocolate rims prior to rim heating, which involves the fusing of two chocolate halves. Both retrofitted systems have provided space and energy savings.

It is important that moulds are pre-heated to a specific temperature before chocolate is poured. If they are too warm, the chocolate can change its characteristics and detemper. Too cold and the poured chocolate will lose shape and possibly crack.

Heraeus Noblelight provided a trial infrared system. This proved a success and a full-scale 14.4kW carbon infrared system was installed, with a pyrometer to ensure that moulds are heated to exactly 29°C. A 9.6kW carbon infra-red system was then installed for rim heating.

The controllable heating system has significantly reduced reject levels.