Fortress Technology to launch next-generation touchscreen HMI for food metal detectors at Interpack 2026
Fortress Technology will showcase a new touchscreen human-machine interface (HMI) for food metal detectors at Interpack 2026 (Hall 11, Stand E30, 7-13 May, Düsseldorf), designed to strengthen food safety management through improved usability, real-time data capture and streamlined digital compliance.
High-contrast display designed to reduce human error
Presented on a Stealth metal detector, the new interface features a high-contrast display with selectable light and dark modes, bold buttons, contrasting icons and a multi-colour warning system. These design choices are intended to support safety-critical tasks in fast-paced manufacturing environments, enabling operators to access critical control point (CCP) information and respond to alerts with minimal risk of error.
Live production statistics – including contaminant detection events, conveyor and reject bin status, throughput metrics, sensitivity settings and current product identity – are displayed on the HMI and logged for extraction and reporting.
Compliance and data reporting
The interface supports real-time monitoring and provides direct access to event logs, facilitating faster product setup and reliable metal detection performance. Quality assurance reports can be extracted via USB or automated using Fortress Technology’s Contact 4.0 digital reporting platform, which simplifies audit reporting and automates performance verification records.
For facilities requiring greater connectivity, optional OPC UA and Ethernet/IP Communication Adapters allow customised real-time data capture and integration with plant monitoring systems, ERP platforms and databases.
When used alongside Halo Automatic Testing – which verifies the performance of individual metal detectors – the system supports compliance with HACCP, GFSI, BRCGS, and retailer and supply chain codes of practice.
Compatibility across existing metal detector lines
Measuring 18.3 cm by 11.4 cm, the touchscreen is designed to integrate with all models across the Fortress Technology product range. Food processors currently using Stealth and Interceptor gravity, pipeline and conveyor metal detectors can upgrade to the new interface without extensive modifications, in line with the company’s Never Obsolete guarantee.
“Providing a high-visibility interface supports day-to-day operational efficiency. It also makes it easier for manufacturers to adhere to regulatory standards and documentation requirements,” said Phil Brown, European Sales Director.
The existing membrane-style and stainless steel HMIs will remain available for facilities operating in heavy washdown environments.
Streamlined setup and access control
The system incorporates 500 pre-programmed product categories to reduce setup and training time. A secure, multi-level password system prevents operators from overriding HMI instructions – a feature intended to support consistent food safety protocols and operator accountability across production teams.
Fortress Technology (Europe) Ltd is based in Oxfordshire and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortress Technology Inc., headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
- For more information, visit: fortresstechnology.co.uk
