Mekitec SideMEKI™ X-Ray Inspection System

SIDEMEKI™: Specialised Side-View X-Ray Inspection for Tall Packages

The SIDEMEKI™ from Mekitec is a specialised X-ray inspection system designed for tall packages, including PET bottles, cartons, containers, jars and cans. By offering side-view inspection, SIDEMEKI™ extends the benefits of primary packaging X-ray quality control to applications where the product height exceeds its width, enabling true pack-for-pack traceability and precise quality monitoring.

Foreign Body Detection Through Metal Caps, Lids, and Glass

SIDEMEKI™ is engineered to detect foreign bodies even through challenging packaging materials. Its side-view X-ray geometry enables inspection through metal caps and lids, including aluminium and steel closures, without compromising detection sensitivity in the product zone beneath. For glass-packaged products such as jars and bottles, the system's AI-enhanced image processing distinguishes genuine contaminants from the glass substrate, reliably identifying dense foreign objects such as metal fragments, bone, stone, and glass shards within the product. This makes SIDEMEKI™ particularly well-suited to glass jar and bottle lines where conventional top-down inspection is limited by the opacity of the closure or the geometry of the container.

AI-Enhanced Detection with Flexible Configuration

Engineered with AI-enhanced X-ray image processing, SIDEMEKI™ achieves high detection accuracy without the need for costly mechanical upgrades. Producers can choose between one or two X-ray generators depending on inspection requirements, ensuring reliable foreign object detection as well as additional quality functions such as fill level verification and cap inspection. This flexibility delivers the best value in the industry whilst maintaining operational efficiency on production lines with challenging tall package formats.

Reliable Performance in Demanding Conditions

SIDEMEKI™ operates reliably under demanding conditions. High moisture or salt content and various packaging materials do not affect inspection performance. The system runs Windows 10 using Mekitec X-Ray Inspection Software and features a 15-inch colour TFT LCD touchscreen for intuitive operation. Connectivity via USB and Ethernet allows seamless integration with factory management systems for traceability and reporting.

Hygienic Construction and Regulatory Compliance

The system is constructed from robust brushed stainless steel and includes an EU and FDA-approved food-grade conveyor chain belt. SIDEMEKI™ is compliant with the UK X-ray Supermarket Code of Practice, meeting the stringent requirements for food safety inspection systems supplying the UK retail sector. Optional configurations include one or two rejecters, with confirmation systems available to ensure compliance with production quality standards. Rejection bins are configurable to suit specific product dimensions, allowing uninterrupted and safe removal of rejected items.

Safety and Standards Compliance

SIDEMEKI™ meets strict safety and hygiene standards. It operates with one or two X-ray generators rated at 200 W, keeping residual radiation below 1 µSv/h, and features safety circuitry certified to Category 3, Performance Level PL d. With an IP65 rating, it is resistant to dust and water ingress, and operates reliably in ambient temperatures from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius with 30–85 per cent non-condensing humidity. Optional cooling is available for high-temperature environments.

Optimised Detection Area for Tall Products

The detection area accommodates products up to 270 mm in height and up to 125 mm in width (155 mm with lead curtains), with product lengths dependent on the rejecter configuration. The system supports both end-feed and side-feed in-feed/out-feed options to maintain smooth production flow for tall packages.

Cost-Effective Innovation for Tall Package Inspection

With its AI-driven inspection, configurable generators, comprehensive quality functionality, and durable hygienic construction, SIDEMEKI™ represents a cost-effective, innovation-led solution for side-view inspection of tall food packages. It delivers superior traceability, reliable foreign object detection, and high value for modern food manufacturers.