At Berglandmilch in Wörgl, a new automatic schmier installation with an integrated de-brining and discharge line has recently been commissioned. This site, also known as Tirol Milch, stands out because it produces not only cheese, but also a wide range of other dairy products. The cooperation with DERO GROEP resulted in a solution that fits both technically and organisationally with the production environment of this versatile location.

Berglandmilch operates several production sites across Austria, but the facility in Wörgl holds a special position within the group. In addition to cheese, a wide range of other dairy products is produced at this site. “Wörgl is not only focused on cheese production. We produce almost the entire dairy range here, from milk and cream to yogurt, quark and pudding. This breadth makes our site unique within the group,” explains Berglandmilch’s technical project manager.

The step towards central automation
To further optimise production, Berglandmilch selected a central schmier installation combined with a de-brining and discharge line. This replaced a large number of decentralised schmier robots with one integrated and future-proof solution.

Efficiency and hygiene as key principles

Looking back on the project, the technical project manager at Berglandmilch explains: "We faced the challenge of replacing eleven outdated, decentralised schmier robots. Because experience with central installations had already been gained at other sites, the decision was made to take that step here as well." When selecting a partner, several factors played a role. "Decisive were the capacity of the installation, combined with reduced labour requirements and maintenance costs. In addition, full CIP cleanability and compliance with hygiene requirements were essential." The switch from fixed racks to flexible storage on movable boxes, known as 'Gestellen', also resulted in much more efficient use of space. This new storage method created approximately 25–30% additional storage capacity within the same available footprint.

Cooperation and execution

At Berglandmilch, the project with DERO GROEP is viewed very positively. "The cooperation with all parties involved went very well. The project was tightly managed and agreements were met." The design also made a strong impression. According to the production manager: "The modular concept and the quality of the components fit well with our requirements."

During acceptance, the line was tested at full capacity. "What stood out in particular was how well the entire system works together in practice. The design fits our processes perfectly and the system is clearly developed with ease of use in mind," adds the production manager.

The schmier installation in action. 

Learning, improving and growing together

Berglandmilch has been working with DERO GROEP for many years. At the Geinberg site, a schmier installation and a de-boxing line were previously delivered, while solutions have also been installed in Voitsberg. Joop Bouman, sales account manager at DERO GROEP, adds: "That first installation was a learning process for us. But by persevering and continuously improving quality, trust grew. You can clearly see that reflected in Wörgl." According to Joop, this progress was also recognised by the customer: "They indicated that over the years we have learned a great deal and have now become true specialists in cheese schmieren."

The installation in Wörgl is partly based on earlier projects, but has been further developed in several areas. Technical insights from cheese plastification have been successfully applied to schmieren, a specialism that is particularly common in southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Once again, DERO GROEP demonstrates its role as a flexible and future-oriented partner in advanced cheese treatment. From Berglandmilch’s perspective, this is summarised as follows: "DERO GROEP has proven to be a reliable partner, both technically and organisationally."

Also investing in sustainable and efficient cheese treatment? DERO GROEP is happy to think along about smart, future-proof automation solutions for production environments. Get in touch and discover the possibilities.