The Multiple Retention Time (MRT) Tunnel is designed to accommodate varying product types and carton sizes that require different chill or freeze times.

It is a completely automatic air blast based system that provides flexibility to apply different cooling regimes for different groups of product. Application of very low temperatures in a controlled environment enables a fast chill or freeze; typical cycle times range from two to 48 hours.

Interfacing conveyor systems provide completely automatic, hands-free loading and unloading of product, precisely timed to achieve the desired temperature. Eliminating manual handling preserves product quality and reduces the incidence of injury through strain.

Shelves within the system are allocated different retention times and the interfacing conveyors pre-sort and accumulate product types allowing transfer onto a designated shelf depending on the product retention time.

MRT tunnels are used for chilling or freezing and under some circumstances can do both in the same tunnel.

The shelves move at different paces and the in-feed and out-feed carton conveyor transfers are typically placed at both ends of the tunnel.

The MRT tunnel is suited to food processing operations that have a range of products that each require different conditioning.

The integrated controls and automation designed for each system application allows for operator changes to the set retention time. The controls also deliver complete tracking of all product within the system.

Tunnels can be designed to operate with a variety of refrigerants depending on customer specifications and desired cycle times, in order to integrate with other process flows within the facility.

Milmeq

Milmeq, whose automated chilling and freezing systems have established the global benchmark for cooling and freezing meat, poultry and dairy products in cartons or crates, were acquired by MHM Automation in 2018.