Bühler launches Nutrex 7 Series extrusion platform for food and feed processors
The new system focuses on hygiene, digital monitoring, lower waste levels, and easier operation for food and feed producers.
SWITZERLAND – Bühler Group has introduced its new Nutrex 7 Series extrusion systems for the food and feed industry, with the company placing strong focus on hygiene, process control, and lower production waste.
The new twin screw extrusion system builds on Bühler’s long running extrusion technology, which the company already uses in hundreds of systems across global markets. Engineers behind the Nutrex 7 Series aimed to improve cleaning, process monitoring, and machine operation while keeping production stable.
“We focused on a holistic approach based on four main categories: hygienic design, process stability, integrated intelligence, and service excellence, all with the aim of increasing Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) for our customers,” said Stefanie Hardtmann, product manager value nutrition at Bühler.
The company designed the system using a modular concept so processors across several industries can adapt it to different production needs. Bühler said the design also supports faster cleaning and easier maintenance.
“Externally, we focused on a slimmer design for the extruder,” said David Meile, project manager R&D at Bühler. “The elevated base frame creates more ground clearance, and the hydraulic box has been integrated from the base frame to the side of the extruder. This allows direct access with cleaning equipment, simplifying cleaning and shortening cleaning time.”
The system uses stainless steel construction and supports wet cleaning both inside and outside the machine. Bühler also added a patented Cleaning Lance for internal cleaning and improved worker safety.
Digital tools form another key part of the system. Bühler added browser based controls that allow operators to monitor and manage production remotely. The company also included CCP monitoring and an OEE application to help users track production issues and support audit processes.
“An extruder is not simply a machine, but an integrated process step in the food industry,” said Adrian Staerkle, team manager R&D automation.
The company also introduced a new feature called StepFlow, which automates start up and shutdown procedures using preset production values. Bühler said the feature can help processors avoid up to 30% waste per production run.
One of the first companies to test the Nutrex 7 Series was Kärntner Mühle in Austria.
“We were particularly impressed by the simple integration into our existing line and the significantly simplified handling,” said Martin Kropfitsch, owner and managing director of Kärntner Mühle.
Bühler said several test units already operate at customer sites, and the Nutrex 7 Series is now available for immediate order and delivery.
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