Food Safe Metal Springs in Fast Food Automation: Revolutionizing Efficiency and Precision

By Paul Benny, CEO Tennessee Spring & Metal

Fast food automation has arrived. We’re in the early days of a fast food revolution and in the increasingly automated world of fast food, efficiency, hygiene, reliability, and precision are as important as fries are to a company's bottom line. And as the demand for quick, contactless, reliable, drive-through fast food service continues to grow, the integration of automation technologies is increasingly essential.?

The New York Times writes that “Drive-through traffic rose 30 percent from 2019 to 2022, according to a report from the food service research firm Technomic. Meanwhile, the number of people eating inside fast-food restaurants in the first half of 2023 fell by 47 percent from the same period in 2019. Drive-throughs now account for two-thirds of all fast-food purchases, according to a September report by Revenue Management Solutions.”

The wizard behind the drive through curtain and in the fast food kitchen? The common spring.

You may not think of it as a technology, but an often overlooked component of fast food automation is the humble spring. Springs play an important role in fast food automation, contributing to smoother operations, faster service, hygienic environments, and enhanced customer experiences.

The Role of Springs in Fast Food Automation

Precision in Order Placement

Springs are what make the mechanisms responsible for precise order production work. Whether it's a sanitary robotic arm flipping a formerly frozen burger patty or a dispenser releasing a measured squirt of mustard, springs ensure controlled, hygienic, and accurate movements. This precision not only enhances the quality of the final product but also reduces waste, contributing to cost-effectiveness.

Efficient Conveyor Systems

Fast food automation relies heavily on conveyor systems to transport ingredients and finished products. Springs are used in conveyor belt systems to absorb shocks, vibrations, and irregularities, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted flow. This accelerates the speed of production and also minimizes the risk of damage to delicate items like buns, eggs, or toppings.

Automated Beverage Dispensing

Springs are used in automated beverage dispensers to accurately regulate the flow of liquids. From soft drinks to slushies, maintaining the right pour rate is essential for consistency and customer satisfaction. Springs contribute to this by controlling valves and levers, preventing spills and optimizing the pouring process.

Safe and Reliable Equipment

Safety is a top priority in any fast food establishment. Springs can help ensure the reliability and safety of automated equipment. Springs in automated fryers and cooking equipment help regulate pressure and control lids, preventing accidents and ensuring a safe environment for the hard-working humans who work in fast food restaurants.

Better customer service

According to Square Future’s 2022 restaurant survey, “90% of restaurants agree that increased automation for back-of house operations would allow staff to focus on more important tasks.” (Source: Dev.pro)

Energy-Efficient Operations

Springs can also improve energy-efficiency. By storing and releasing energy as needed, springs contribute to the overall efficiency of automated processes. This reduces energy consumption and aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within the fast food industry.

In the evolving landscape of fast food automation, every component plays a vital role in achieving efficiency and precision. Simple, yet well-made metal springs, are the Whoppers, Big Macs, and large fries behind the seamless and reliable functioning of automated systems.?

As the fast food industry continues to embrace automation, the role of springs in ensuring consistent, safe, and efficient operations can’t be overlooked.?

Tennessee Spring & Metal and our sister company, FluidForming Americas, have worked with food equipment manufacturers to create prototype parts and perfect spring mechanisms for automated fast food equipment. Need a back-of-house crew that can help bring your fast food automation ideas to the table?? Contact our team today. 800-497-3545