Innovative cheese production by FrieslandCampina Steenderen.

At FrieslandCampina in Steenderen, making cheese is about much more than just production; it's about refining, storing, packaging and making sure whole cheeses are ready for traders and grocery stores. In this dynamic environment, DERO GROEP took automation and robotization to the next level. "Space was limited, but the aspirations were big," says Maro Dedel, director of DERO GROEP. "With smart robot technology, we maximized the space and optimized the process."

"Robotization is essential in the cheese industry. Think of all the steps that cheese goes through: turning, coating, packaging - precision work that robots do quickly and flawlessly," says Aart Tijssen, project manager at FrieslandCampina. "With robots, we increase production, keep quality high and cope with staff shortages. Robots take over the heavy work, which reduces costs and increases efficiency. With limited space, we are getting the most out of our production."

Smart stacking

The first collaboration between DERO GROEP and FrieslandCampina in 2006 revolved around optimizing the palletizing process at the packaging location in Leerdam. Maro says: "We came up with a smart solution that allowed us to stack without extra space and with minimal equipment. The robots worked with two lines simultaneously, eliminating the need for palletizing conveyors. In recent years, equipment has become faster, so each packaging line now requires its own stacking robot. These implementations also go smoothly because of good preparation and coordination. So the cheeses in Leerdam are prepared for shipment faster and more efficiently."

For the next project in Steenderen in 2008, there was a new challenge: doing more with less space. DERO GROEP installed a flexible bulk packaging line with four robots that did everything: from unloading cheese racks and waxing cheeses to packing and stacking on pallets. This clever design increased throughput and allowed FrieslandCampina to make the best use of existing space. "Every square meter counts in the factory. DERO GROEP ensures that we still achieve a high level of automation in a limited space," says Aart.

Robots are used at FrieslandCampina Steenderen for the treatment and packaging of cheeses.

Hygiene at the highest level

In 2019, DERO GROEP once again provided an innovative solution: a self-cleaning treatment line that meets the highest hygiene and safety standards. Aart: "This line fits perfectly in our factory, but had to be installed with a raised roof. In the middle of the project, the planning changed, but DERO GROEP remained flexible and adapted effortlessly. Now we are working with a robotic cheese treatment line based on a patented concept from DERO GROEP that meets the strictest hygiene requirements. A huge step forward."

Clear and realistic

After almost twenty years of cooperation, Aart knows DERO GROEP's strengths well. "The cooperation is based on clear and realistic agreements. DERO GROEP only promises what they can deliver, and that creates trust. If there is a problem, they look for a solution until it is absolutely right. Even if that takes extra time."

Smart technology for a tasteful process

What started in 2006 with a few palletizing robots grew into a full suite of solutions for the cheese processing industry that supports every step of the process. From robots for tasks such as paraffinizing and packaging to self-cleaning systems that meet the strictest hygiene standards, each new innovation takes production to the next level. “DERO GROEP has adapted and developed at every stage,” says Aart Tijssen. "They continue to surprise us with their flexibility and foresight. This allows us to keep our production optimally adjusted to the future."

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