Sausage manufacturers need the right equipment to allow production lines to move smoothly. This equipment should increase operational efficiency while maintaining product quality. The right machine will reduce operational expenses, regardless of the company’s size. What should a person consider when choosing industrial machinery for sausage production?
Production Needs
The first thing to consider when investing in industrial machinery is production needs. The business size and production volume play a role in which machine a company should purchase. Furthermore, the buyer must determine which sausage types the machine will handle and whether fully integrated sausage lines will be of benefit.
Small companies may get away with a manual machine initially, allowing them to protect their cash flow until business takes off and revenue steadily comes in. Businesses that have been in operation for a while and have a solid customer base often find that a fully automated machine is beneficial. When comparing machines, learn which types of sausage each machine can handle. Specific machines are designed for use with smoked, fresh, or dry sausages. A small business might want a batch-based machine, while a larger corporation typically opts for continuous, high-speed devices.
Sausage-Making Machine Types
Many people who process meat at home opt for a manual sausage stuffer, and small businesses usually start with this type of unit. The operator must fill and case the sausages by hand, which can be labor-intensive. However, these machines come with an affordable price tag for most people, so it is a good starting point for a new business that has limited funds. As the company grows, the owner can invest in machines that take on more tasks.
Once the business begins to grow, the owner might choose to upgrade to a semi-automatic sausage-making machine. This machine will handle the stuffing and linking aspects of sausage production, but it must be manually operated. People find this machine to be affordable, and it increases efficiency, but the business may need to upgrade to a fully integrated machine when sales take off.
Large-scale meat processing plants use fully automatic sausage-making machines designed for industrial use. They automate all parts of the sausage-making process, from the stuffing to the cutting. While these machines cost significantly more at the time of purchase, production speed increases when they are used, and product consistency improves. The manufacturer customizes the machine to meet the user’s specific needs, as each sausage maker is different.
Fully automated machines feature a hygienic design to reduce the risk of contamination. Sausage makers understand the importance of food safety and must choose a machine that prioritizes food safety. Furthermore, the company worries less about downtime and lost productivity thanks to the hygienic design. Maintaining this machine is easy, so the company can produce more sausages and earn additional revenue.
Price and Budget
Every business owner must determine where to spend their funds, as they must operate within a budget. When choosing a sausage-making machine, they need to know how much they can afford to pay. Fully automated machines cost more than their manual siblings, but they allow the business to produce more sausages in less time. A higher-capacity machine comes with a bigger price tag, and stainless steel machines are costly, but they last longer and are more hygienic. Machine features vary significantly by brand and model. A company will pay more for a machine with programmable settings, advanced control panels, and high-speed operation.
A manual sausage stuffer costs a few hundred dollars. Upgrade to a semi-automatic machine, and the price will run in the thousands of dollars. Full-scale manufacturing facilities pay $10,000 or more for an industrial sausage-making machine.
Machine Features to Consider
With many machines to choose from, a person must know which features are most important to them. Manufacturing facilities typically use high-quality stainless steel machines because they are very robust and can withstand continuous use. Furthermore, the stainless steel helps them comply with all food safety rules and regulations.
Manufacturing facilities should consider investing in a device with variable speed control to accommodate various sausage types. A machine that handles the stuffing and linking of the sausages is beneficial, as it reduces manual labor while improving consistency. A machine that can handle natural, synthetic, and collagen casings is beneficial, and business owners typically choose machines that are easy to clean to save time and money.
Where to Purchase
Once a business owner has decided which machine is best for their needs, they must determine where to make the purchase. The company might choose to buy directly from the manufacturer so they obtain a great price and after-sales support. Authorized distributors offer local service and often provide a warranty with the machines they sell. Online marketplaces are an option, but the buyer must carefully read customer reviews to ensure they are working with a reputable seller. It never hurts to check out used equipment sellers, either, as a person can get a great deal on a machine. Carefully inspect any used machine to confirm it is worth the asking price. When the machine will be used in a business, it’s best to buy a machine made by a reputable brand known for quality products.
After-Sales Support
When a person or company spends a large sum of money on a sausage-making machine, they want it to work as intended. When problems arise, they need to know where to turn for help. Purchase a machine with a warranty and service agreement, ensuring that the warranty and service agreement will cover parts and labor. Ask about the availability of replacement parts and how easy it is to clean and maintain the machine. Technical support and training are also helpful.
Small businesses and butchers often find that a manual or semi-automatic machine is enough for their needs. These machines are affordable and handle small batches of sausage. Semi-automatic machines offer the right balance between cost and efficiency, making them ideal for medium-scale operations. Large-scale processing facilities should invest in fully integrated machines to keep up with a demanding workload. Regardless of which machine a person or company chooses to buy, they simplify the sausage-making process, which is what is important.
