Buhler Group‘s OmniCool Smart combines precise temperature control, flexible configurations and hygienic design in one universal cooling solution.
Cooling is a decisive step in confectionery production. It influences not only the appearance of a product, but also its texture, stability and performance during packaging or further processing. Manufacturers therefore need a cooling solution that delivers consistent results while remaining flexible enough to handle different recipes, formats and production requirements.
The Bühler OmniCool Smart was developed with precisely these demands in mind. Designed as a universal cooling tunnel, it is suitable for both chocolate and product cooling. Its broad application range includes enrobed chocolate products such as bars, wafers and biscuits, as well as chocolate drops and chunks. It can also be used for cereal and nut bars, protein bars, fruit and caramel bars, and many other products requiring controlled cooling before the next processing step.
Precise cooling for varied products
At the heart of the OmniCool Smart is precise temperature control. Different configurations allow the cooling process to be adapted to the individual product. Depending on the application, the system can be equipped with one or two top-cooling temperature zones. Bottom cooling can be achieved through return air, air-cooled plates or separate water-cooled plates. This flexibility helps manufacturers create the right cooling profile for a wide variety of products while maintaining reliable and repeatable results.
Consistent product transport is equally important. The OmniCool Smart uses electrical belt tracking and belt tensioning with precise linear cylinders. An array sensor and additional safety sensors continuously support accurate belt positioning. As the system operates without compressed air for these functions, it reduces infrastructure requirements and contributes to energy-effective operation.
Hygienic design and accessibility were key priorities throughout development. The cooling sections feature stainless-steel cladding on both the inside and outside. Large covers supported by gas springs provide straightforward access, while removable air funnels simplify cleaning. Important components within the coil section – including the filter, heat exchanger, droplet separator, electrical reheater and blower – are arranged for convenient inspection, maintenance and servicing.
Modular design supports production flexibility
The modular system can be adapted to different production environments. A range of working widths from 420 to 1,600 millimetres is available, depending on the application. Cooling sections are built in 2.5-metre modules, allowing the tunnel to be configured up to a total length of 65 metres. The operating side can be positioned on the left or right, while options such as a belt washer, bridging device and telescopic infeed table provide additional flexibility.
Operation is supported by the intuitive Bühler PlayOne interface with a 7-inch touch panel. Customers can select Siemens or Allen-Bradley control technology, as well as CE- or UL-compliant electrical configurations, making the system suitable for production sites in different regions.
The OmniCool Smart brings Bühler’s cooling expertise together in one accessible and attractively priced solution. By combining precise cooling, reliable belt control, hygienic construction and flexible configurations, it provides manufacturers with a dependable platform for both established products and future innovations.
With the OmniCool Smart, cooling becomes more than a necessary process step. It becomes a controlled, efficient and flexible foundation for consistent product quality.
