Norwegian processor Filetfabrikken recently began operations in the newly built state-of-the-art processing facility outside of Oslo, specializing in seafood processing and global distribution. The primary focus is on processing Norwegian salmon. They knew they faced the daunting task of optimizing operations and maximizing production efficiency while keeping costs minimal in a highly competitive market. The labor-intensive nature of fish processing demanded solutions that would not only streamline tasks but also ensure long-term reliability. They approached Marel in 2021 to begin developing a fish processing line that would enable high volume and yields well into the future.
Collaborating for successful planning
Marel worked closely with Filetfabrikken to understand their needs and plan an installation perfectly suited to their current requirements while offering long-term durability and scalability for the future. “Marel offered value to us long before the equipment was installed. They offered solutions and ideas throughout the planning process and were flexible in scaling the solutions to our needs,” says Kristian Almaas, founder and owner of Filetfabrikken.
Automating precision fillet trimming with the MS2730
The star of the installation was the MS2730 Filleting Machine with trimming tools and a tail cutter. It emerged as a game-changer by automating precision trimming and streamlining the filleting process. This not only solved labor-intensive tasks but also significantly increased operational efficiency for cost savings and enhanced productivity.
Improved hygiene and efficient grading
Addressing the challenge of maintaining hygiene along their line, Marel's Deslimer efficiently cleans the exterior of the fish, minimizing contamination risks and simplifying maintenance routines. The SmartLine Grader efficiently enhances Filetfabrikken’s packing capabilities by diversifying sizes without the need to buffer finished goods.
Full process control with Innova software
In a modern fish processing plant, it’s essential to have software that provides comprehensive process control. Marel’s Innova Food Processing Software covers everything from processing to packing, storage and order control. This control is vital for Filetfabrikken to ensure efficiency, compliance and traceability throughout the production chain. “The big advantage with Innova is that it gives us control of all the major processes,” Kristian explains. “The unique surveillance of processing, packing, storage, and order control is not “a nice to have,” it’s a “need to have” in our industry.”
Increased yields provide a competitive edge
With increased yields and the ability to exceed production levels, Filetfabrikken added an additional production shift and gained a significant competitive edge in a market where minor price differences on finished goods prevail. Marel's equipment became instrumental in not just meeting but surpassing market expectations.
With the future in mind, Filetfabrikken wanted to ensure that the equipment on their processing floor would stand the test of time but also provide ease of maintenance and cleaning. Marel equipment, designed for longevity, ensures sustained production with minimal downtime. “All the Marel equipment at our plant is dimensioned to hold for many years with production. We expect this to increase durability, decrease break-downs, and simplify labor-intensive cleaning.”
Combining innovative solutions and a collaborative partnership between Filetfabrikken and Marel helped make today’s processing line successful. “Starting up a completely new factory will always involve issues and roadblocks. Together, we have solved all that has come our way, and we now have a modern and efficient filleting line that is scaled to our needs,” Kristian concluded. Filetfabrikken is poised for a prosperous future.
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