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Beef boning unit

Description
The RTL Beef Boning Unit is a manual assist device developed to make boning less physically demanding by aiding tasks that require pulling such as the boning of aitchbones and knuckles.

The device is a mechanical arm that acts to provide the pulling force and speed to aid the operator in rail boning. The specially developed control is designed for ease of use and to provide the operator with a high level of control over the force and speed of the arm acts.


BenefitsBeef Boning Unit
The benefits of the device include:

  • Large yield gains
  • Reduced worker fatigue and strain injuries
  • Increase in the potential labour pool
  • Reduction in staff turnover
  • Increased chain speeds in some cases

Cost/benefit studies at several processing plants have shown an increased net profit of between $3.50 to $4.65 per carcase, with an estimated payback period of 5 months or less.


Availability and Costs
Now commercially available through Robotic Technologies Limited (RTL), a joint research venture between Silver Fern Farms Limited (formerly PPCS) and Scott Technology Limited.

The Beef Boning Unit has a capital cost of approximately AUD 49,000 + installation, while the purchase of multiple units can attract a further discount.

                      

More Information
For more detailed information on the history of the Beef Boning Unit see the background on manual assist devices.

A brochure and specification sheet is also available for the RTL unit.

The Beef Boning Unit was featured in an episode of Feedback TV. The segment is also available for downloading.