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Bühler has introduced OmniCool Smart, a compact cooling tunnel engineered for product and chocolate cooling.

According to Bühler, its new system can help manufacturers to cut energy consumption and reduce operating costs through a streamlined, maintenance-friendly design.

While traditional cooling systems rely on compressed air, OmniCool Smart operates entirely on electricity. Compressed air systems are energy-intensive and require regular maintenance, while electric systems can offer a quieter, more efficient and low-maintenance alternative.

OmniCool Smart optimises airflow, temperature control and belt tracking to deliver ‘perfectly cooled’ fruit, cereal, snack and protein bars as well as enrobed wafer and biscuit products.

It features a modular design, with the cooling section positioned underneath to ensure ‘optimal cooling performance’ while minimising height. Its belt tracking system incorporates advanced sensor technology to deliver ideal operating conditions. The tunnel is also designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, reducing downtime.

The solution can be fully integrated into existing production lines. It can be operated either from the previous machine in the line or directly via its own control panel (human-machine interface, HMI).

Operators benefit from ‘intuitive controls’ that simplify configuration and monitoring, Bühler noted, both at the equipment or via smart devices.

OmniCool is also available as a bundle with ChoCoat Pro, offering an optimised solution for enrobing and cooling.

András Somfai, head of product management and process engineering at Bühler, said: “OmniCool Smart is the ideal compact cooling solution for today’s and future production needs”.

“It ensures consistently high product quality, significantly reduces cleaning and maintenance requirements, and supports customers in reducing their carbon footprint.”