Bramborárna

Bramborárna

2024

Client at Marcelissen

7

Machines

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Renewing and expanding a production line


In the food processing industry, efficiency and innovation are essential for companies that want to keep growing and compete with others. Bramborárna Bukovice, s.r.o., a potato processing company from Teplice, Czech Republic, is a leader when it comes to potato products. Their commitment on pioneering and offering unique products for large kitchens, the catering industry and restaurants sets them apart from their competitors.

With a growing demand for new potato products and a vision focused on constant innovation, Bramborárna decided to renew and expand their production line. This led them to Marcelissen, where a completely new line of food processing machinery was purchased to increase their production capacity and flexibility.

The problem

Previously, Bramborárna relied on outdated machinery that was in need of replacement after years of use. However the problem was extended beyond the outdated equipment. The production line had limited flexibility and did not offer sufficient possibilities to produce different end products quickly and efficiently. This not only hindered Bramborárna’s ability to meet production capacity, but also the possibility to meet the increasing demand of various potato products. Potato wedges, fries and slices all needed to be produced with the same limited resources, which resulted in inefficiency and higher costs.


In addition, buffering products played a role in reducing time loss and higher personnel costs. Vitek Ṧmucer, director of Bramborárna, therefore looked for a solution that would not only replace the outdated machines, but also provide a significant expansion of product capabilities and capacity.

The solution

The solution was a completely new Marcelissen production line. Bramborárna opted for machines that are not only robust and reliable, but also perfectly adjusted to their specific needs and space. The new line consists of:


  • a Vertical Outfeed Auger - BNTSV 500

  • a Conveyor Belt - T400

  • a Wet Hopper with Outfeed Gooseneck Conveyor - BNTZ350

  • a Roller Inspection Belt - IR600

  • a Conveyor Belt - T400

  • a Wet Hopper with Outfeed Gooseneck Conveyor - BNTZ350

  • a Hydrocutter - SH6

The strength of this new line lies in the combination of modular construction and the customized solutions that have been implemented. The Vertical Outfeed Auger transports the potatoes 6 meters up to the first floor, after which they are guided by a conveyor belt to the first wet hopper.  This ensures an efficient flow of products and enables interim buffering, which minimizes interruptions. 


A standout feature of the new line is the Hydrocutter. This machine allows Bramborárna to cut potatoes into various shapes, from wedges to fries, and even (ribbed) slices. The innovative design of the Hydrocutter makes it possible to change the knifes in an instant, allowing Bramborárna to quickly switch between different end products. This offers an unprecedented flexibility that is essential for a company that is continuously expanding its product range.

The result

The new production line has exceeded Bramborárna’s expectations. Thanks to Marcelissen’s robust and custom made machines, the company can now produce more efficiently and faster. The addition of buffer stations ensures that the product line can run continuously, even when switching between different potato products.


 Vitek Ṧmucer, director of Bramborárna, is very satisfied with the achievements of the new line: 

“Overall, I am very satisfied and the hydrocutter meets my expectations, perhaps even surprising me in some ways.” His company can not only produce more, but also respond more quickly to changing customer needs. This gives Bramborárna a unique advantage in a market where flexibility and product diversity are becoming increasingly important. 


Our technicians were warmly welcomed during the installation process and enjoyed accommodations next to the company. “It was just like a five-star hotel, but also very cozy and warm.


This good cooperation with all of Marcelissen’s departments (sales, engineering and installation) resulted in mutual satisfaction.

The impact

The impact of the new production line is significant. In addition to higher production capacity, it has also led to an expansion of their customer base. Restaurants and large kitchens in the region now turn to Bramborárna for unique potato products. 


Furthermore, the reliability of the machines significantly reduces the risk of downtime. This has been a major pain point for Bramborárna, as downtime directly influences their productivity and profitability. The robust Marcellisen machines, coupled with easy maintenance, ensure smooth operation, reducing unexpected interruptions and extending machine lifespan.


Another important advantage is the improved efficiency on the work floor. Thanks to the addition of wet hoppers, the staff can now be deployed more efficiently. Less time is spent moving products manually and converting machines, which means staff can focus on other important tasks in the production process.


Vitek Ṧmucer is not only satisfied with the technical performance of the machines, but also with the collaboration with Marcelissen. Marcelissen’s team was warmly welcomed by Bramborárna during the installation, and collaborated closely with Bramborárna’s technical department. The personal approach and excellent service were highly appreciated, which laid the foundation for a long-lasting collaboration. Jos Derijk, who was closely involved in the sale, looks back with satisfaction: “The collaboration is simply great, this is such a friendly client. After a number of visits to his location, he came here several times to discuss matters face-to-face, which was very nice!”


With this new production line, Bramborárna has taken a major step towards a successful future, and its collaboration with Marcelissen promises opportunities for further growth and product expansion.





The impact

The current setup of pre-sorters and Marcelissen’s optical sorters has had a significant impact. Firstly, there is no longer a need to employ additional personnel during sorting. Secondly, the product quality has improved due to the extremely precise sorting. Lastly, the data obtained from the optical sorting machines allows them to measure potato quality and take necessary actions to further improve it.