The Metals Industry Research and Development Center launched two (2) research and development outputs specifically for brown rice last December 9, 2015 at the MIRDC Platinum Auditorium. The technoenthusiasts, press people together with the metals and engineering industry players and key personnel of government institutions joined MIRDC in these launching of new technologies. The food processing equipment for brown rice are the microwave vacuum dryer and the superheated steam treatment system (SSTS). The microwave vacuum dryer which will produce a rice-bran of finer-grade is an effective device to make the brown rice more edible and pleasing to eat. Samples of rice bran are free tasted on this occasion through the bread and hotdogs that were served. Brown rice is one of the hottest, healthy staple food in the Philippines today.
Shown below Engr. Robert O. Dizon, MIRDC Officer-in-Charge, welcomes all the guests who attended the launching activity of the Department of Science and Technology particularly MIRDC
The superheated steam treatment system exposes the brown rice to about 90 seconds treatment to superheated steam to reduce the enzymic activity thus increasing its shelf life. At present, the brown rice can be stored for only 1 month or less for them to remain effective, useful, or suitable for consumption.The target for shelf life is from 5-9 months but the testing is still ongoing.
Engr. Jason P. Rogelio, the project leader for microwave vacuum dryer, has received recognitions and nominations for awards. Another study on brown rice was also presented by Dr. Blanca Villarino of UP-College of Home Economics. Dr. Dominic S. Guevarra, leading the team for superheated steam treatment system, has also several projects lined-up. The latter equipment provides the brown rice more quality than those which do not undergo treatment. Engr. Rosemarie Garcia, from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute explained the background of the project. Both projects are from MIRDC.
Below, the project teams post for a souvenir photo with Engr. Dizon, Officer-in-Charge of MIRDC and Engr. Fred Liza, Division Chief of MIRDC-Prototyping Division
Microwave Vacuum Chamber Superheated Steam Treatment System
The microwaves will stimulate molecules in the food, turns the energy into heat, causing the food to heat up. These waves are the electromagnetic waves that were converted from electrical energy. The microwaves primarily works on water molecules and heats up fats/oils and sugar in lesser extent. The parts of the microwave vacuum dryer are chiller, control box, chamber, motor drive assembly, applicator set, vacuum pump and refrigeration system.
The superheated steam has temperature higher than the vaporization (boiling) temperature. SSTS uses superheated steam as the combined process of steaming and drying of brown rice. The process extends the shelf-life and able to retain sensory acceptability and quality of brown rice without chemical additives.
SSTS constitutes a treatment chamber, superheated steam generator, a conveyor and a control system. The treatment chamber is mainly made of stainless steel and mild steel. Its processing time is 5-7 minutes. Its expected output is 85 kilograms per hour or 680 kilograms per day for 8-hours operation. Power requirement is 834 watts. The steam generator is a 5 horse power boiler with an equivalent evaporation of at least 75 kilograms per hour, operating at a pressure of at least 3 bars. The steam super heater can generate an output steam with a temperature of 300oC.
The Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) is preparing for the grand celebration of its golden founding anniversary on June 18, 2016. The key officials of the MIRDC are looking forward to a robust participation not only of the MIRDC personnel but also of the metalworking industry associations and other stakeholders.
MIRDC 50th logo
With this longevity, sustaining power and success, the Center’s customers could look forward to more aggressive products and services that the MIRDC could efficiently and effectively provide.
To kick off the celebration, a contest was launched among MIRDC employees for the best anniversary logo. The winning
entry, now the official anniversary logo, appears in all written correspondences of the Center. With less than 30 days before the celebration, various committees are carrying out activities for the highlights of the anniversary, namely: the monument construction; M&E international conference; thanks-giving dinner; homecoming for former MIRDC officials and employees; physical landscaping; special publications that will be launched; and the construction of the new main access road and MIRDC gate.
Dr. Agustin M. Fudolig, Deputy Executive Director for Technical Services, chairs this year’s over-all M & E Week and 50th Anniversary Celebration.
Happy, blessed, fruitful golden anniversary M I R D C !
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Perspective photos of the MIRDC main laboratory building, reception lobby and main gate |
"Molding the Future of Metal Industries"
MANDATE
The Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) provides both the government and the private sector in the metals and engineering industry with professional management and technical expertise on training of engineers and technicians, information exchange, trade accreditation services, quality control and testing of metal products, research and development, and business economics advisory services.
VISION STATEMENT
"Center of excellence in science, technology and innovation for globally competitive metals, engineering & allied industries by 2025."
MISSION
“To provide both government and private sectors in the metals, engineering, and allied industries with professional management and technical expertise on the training of engineers & technicians; information exchange; quality control & testing; research & development; technology transfer; and business economics advisory services.”
CORE VALUES
The set of Core Values, easily referred to as PRIDE, is defined as follows:
Professionalism
- We adhere to the highest ethical standards of performance
- We value our work and committed to perform to the best of our ability
Responsiveness
- We spearhead implementation of projects that address the needs of the metals and engineering industry
- We find solutions to real-life problems through science, technology and innovation
Integrity
- We act responsibly, work honestly, and encourage transparency
Dynamism
- We perform our jobs with vigor and enthusiasm
- We welcome change as an opportunity for growth and continual improvement
Excellence
- We adhere to world-class performance and continuous improvement in all we do
- We always do our best in every task/endeavour
The Metals Industry Research and Development Center, an agency of the Department of Science and Technology, is assisting the Whittlers Arts and Crafts of Pakil, Laguna through the deployment of a new technology - the CNC router. The Whittlers designated some of its employees undergo training on how to operate and maintain the machine that will be used to produce its various products. The CNC router or Super Lilok is one of the machines recently developed by MIRDC in partnership with a private company – Primark Toolings, Inc. - to help the furniture industry to meet the requirements for consistent quality thus, attaining global competitiveness.
With the introduction of the technology from MIRDC, Whittlers is expected to increase its productivity and consistently enhance product quality. Engr. Jason P. Rogelio, MIRDC project leader, leads the training of Whittlers personnel for the operation of the CNC router. The training program was held on March 1-3, 2016 covering maintenance and operation. Engr. Adonis T. Marquez from the Technology Diffusion Division coordinated the activity. Whittlers’ Art uses knives of various thicknesses and lengths to shave soft wood, transforming the shavings into filigreed fans, peacocks, butterflies, birds, flowers, and other designs of various shapes and sizes.
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MIRDC staff conducts training to Whittlers for the operation |
Manually-made products of Whittlers |
The CNC Router or Super Lilok is a machine that is operated by G-codes. The controller reads the G-codes and translates the numbers to mechanical movement so that it can cut and engrave on woods, metals and acrylics. This machine can mass produce more intricate and sophisticated designs. This was developed by MIRDC to help the local wood-working and metal-cutting industries stay competitive.
Whittler’s Arts and Crafts of Pakil is located at 175 Tavera street, Pakil, Laguna.
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| Whittlers personnel operates the CNC router machine under supervision by MIRDC staff |
"Molding the Future of Metal Industries"
For further information, please refer to:
Sgd.
Ms. Aurea T. Motas
BAC Chairman
Metals Industry Research and Development Center
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel. No. 837-0431 local 442 and 444
