Fortress Technology has introduced a new compact automated checkweigher designed to support food processors seeking greater control over product weights and compliance with packaging regulations. The system, called Raptor Flex, will be presented at Interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf, where the company will exhibit in Hall 11, Stand E30.

The machine is positioned as a modular, standalone checkweighing solution for packaged food products weighing up to 4kg. According to Fortress Technology, the system is intended to help processors reduce product giveaway while maintaining compliance with weight regulations.

Checkweighing systems are typically installed at the end of inspection or packaging lines and play an important role in ensuring pack weight consistency. In potato processing operations, such equipment is commonly used on lines producing retail bags of crisps, frozen potato products, dehydrated potato ingredients, and other packaged formats where weight control directly affects both regulatory compliance and production costs.

Fortress Technology says the Raptor Flex is designed to address the needs of processors seeking an automated weighing solution that can be installed quickly and integrated with existing inspection equipment.

Addressing what the company describes as a market need for accessible automated weight inspection, the Raptor Flex is targeted particularly at small and medium-sized food processors. The machine is engineered to provide automated checkweighing capabilities without requiring large-scale investment or major modifications to existing production lines.

One of the features highlighted by the manufacturer is the system’s delivery timeline. Fortress Technology notes that by offering standardized machine sizes and configurations, it can streamline production and reduce lead times. The company also states that the complete system—including reporting and connectivity software—is manufactured internally.

“This quick turnaround helps food processors to promptly upgrade or adapt their quality control processes, supporting operational efficiency and responsiveness to market demands,” said Phil Brown, European sales director at Fortress Technology.

Constructed from stainless steel, the Raptor Flex is designed to integrate into HACCP inspection environments. The system includes two wipe-clean lift-out conveyors and is capable of weighing products at speeds of up to 200 packs per minute, according to the company.

Flexible input and output electronics enable the system to be integrated with other inspection technologies, including Fortress Technology metal detection and X-ray inspection equipment. The machine can also provide trend feedback to upstream filling, portioning, or packaging systems.

The system is operated through a 10.1-inch color HMI touchscreen, which displays real-time production performance data, batch statistics, and key performance indicators. A top-mounted status beacon provides visual alerts to production personnel in case of operational issues.

To simplify product changeovers, the Raptor Flex includes 500 pre-programmed product categories, which the company says helps reduce setup times and operator training requirements. A multi-level password system is also incorporated to prevent unauthorized changes to operational parameters.

Data reporting and connectivity are supported through several options. Batch reports can be exported via USB or through Fortress Technology’s Contact 4.0 system. For processors requiring deeper integration into plant networks, the system can also support OPC UA and Ethernet/IP communication adapters for real-time production data exchange.

The machine is available with three conveyor widths—100mm, 200mm, and 300mm—as well as several reject station options including air blast systems, diverter paddles, and kickers. Optional lift-off covers are also available depending on operational requirements.

“With its rapid lead time and adaptable configuration options, the Raptor Flex delivers an ideal solution for processors seeking to enhance their quality control measures while maintaining operational agility and meeting tight production deadlines,” Brown added.

The launch comes as food processors across multiple sectors—including potato processing—continue to focus on improving production efficiency, minimizing product giveaway, and strengthening inspection and quality control procedures on packaging lines.