Automated Bacon Production Line

Rockwell Automation Enables Industry’s First Fully Automated Bacon Production Line

Middleby Food Processing selects Rockwell’s unified automation platform to transform bacon production with increased efficiency and sustainability.

Breakthrough in Food Processing Automation

Rockwell Automation will power the food industry’s first fully automated bacon production line. Middleby Food Processing selected Rockwell as its automation partner. The innovative line debuted at this year’s IFFA tradeshow in Frankfurt. This collaboration addresses growing demand for efficient food processing solutions. It also supports the need for more flexible and sustainable production methods.

Addressing Key Industry Challenges

Middleby Food Processing required a scalable automation solution. The company helps customers combat rising labor costs and space limitations. Stricter sustainability goals also drove the need for innovation. Rockwell’s engineering expertise and integration capabilities proved decisive. The company’s ability to future-proof manufacturing systems stood out during selection.

Strategic Partnership Drivers

“Rockwell’s equipment integration across our brands was crucial,” said Mark Salman, President of Middleby Food Processing. “We needed long-term flexibility and machine interoperability. Rockwell delivered these along with robust engineering support. Their programming practices are truly best-in-class.”

Technical Implementation Details

Rockwell’s solution features FactoryTalk Optix technology. This system standardizes operator interfaces and application code libraries. The Machine Builder Library and Device Objects ensure consistent programming structure. This architecture simplifies remote troubleshooting for service technicians. It also enables real-time data strategies and enhances production agility.

Transforming Food Production

“We’re proud to support Middleby’s vision for food production,” said Steve Pulsifer, Rockwell Automation Senior Manager. “This collaboration demonstrates innovation and automation potential. The automated bacon line improves throughput significantly. It also reduces labor requirements and wastewater usage. This achievement raises food manufacturing standards industry-wide.”

Broader Automation Applications

The bacon line represents just one automation success. Middleby’s automation efforts extend across multiple food segments. These include bakery and protein processing operations. Rockwell-powered solutions emphasize adaptability and customization. This enables customers to tailor systems to unique operational needs. The approach helps companies maintain competitive market positions.

Author’s Insight: The Future of Food Automation

This project represents more than bacon automation—it signals a fundamental shift in food processing. The integration of Rockwell’s FactoryTalk Optix demonstrates how standardized platforms can transform traditionally mechanical industries. For automation engineers, the key takeaway is the emphasis on interoperability and remote support capabilities. As labor shortages persist in food processing, such fully automated lines will become economically essential rather than merely advantageous. The reduction in wastewater alone could make this technology mandatory as environmental regulations tighten.

Application Scenario: Automated Processing Line Implementation

Challenge: A food processor faces 40% labor cost increases and cannot meet new wastewater regulations with conventional bacon production methods.
Solution: Implementation of Rockwell’s fully automated production line with standardized control architecture and real-time monitoring.
Outcome: The processor achieves 30% higher throughput, reduces labor costs by 60%, and decreases wastewater production by 45% while maintaining consistent product quality.

About the Companies

Middleby Food Processing leads the global food processing industry. The company provides innovative solutions for protein and bakery producers. Their equipment covers all stages from raw material preparation to final packaging.

Rockwell Automation serves as a global industrial automation leader. The company focuses on digital transformation and sustainable productivity. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Rockwell employs approximately 27,000 professionals worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes this bacon production line innovative?
It represents the food industry’s first fully automated bacon processing line, integrating all production stages through a unified automation platform.

Which Rockwell technologies power the automated line?
FactoryTalk Optix standardizes operations, while Machine Builder Library and Device Objects ensure consistent programming across equipment brands.

What benefits does the automated line provide?
Increased throughput, reduced labor costs, decreased wastewater usage, and enhanced production flexibility and sustainability.

Where was the automated line first demonstrated?
The line debuted at the IFFA tradeshow in Frankfurt, Germany, showcasing its capabilities to the international food processing industry.

How does this project fit into broader food automation trends?
It represents Middleby’s expanding automation efforts across bakery and protein segments, emphasizing adaptable, customer-specific solutions.