Batching System For The Feed Industry

Agri-King Batching System Control Panel

Case Overview:

Agri-King, Inc. is an animal nutrition company committed to the success and profitability of livestock producers worldwide. Known for its precise feed analyses, highly fortified products, and knowledgeable staff, Agri-King strives to help livestock producers get the most out of each pound of feed and each head of livestock.  Sterling Systems batching system for the feed industry is installed.

The Challenge:

Agri-King had first utilized Sterling Systems in the early 1970’s for their first automated system. While the original system was still very reliable, the age of the system was a concern, so in 1991 the decision to upgrade the system hardware was made. A software upgrade was made to the 1991 system in the mid 2000’s, bringing the system software up to date, however, the control hardware was becoming obsolete and difficult to source spare components by 2013.

The Solution:

Sterling Systems and Controls’ Sales and Engineering staffs did a thorough review of the application to identify any opportunities for improvements as well as changes to the process that should be considered while making the third generation upgrade. A Project Manager was assigned to manage the project from start to finish, making the upgrade seamless and smooth. The Project Manager supported the system wiring checkout and training and was at the disposal of Agri-King until the project was completed.

THE RESULTS – Batching System for the Feed Industry:

Upon system completion, Plant Manager, Charlie Letcher said of the system that it, “Looks good… works good”. Charlie stated that the system was outstanding and that the Project Manager did a great job. Charlie also expressed that the Sterling Controls Representatives are, “Great at their jobs and have good communication skills that help with both the planning and implementation.”

Mr. Letcher was impressed that Sterling applied these same batching system for the feed industry to other industries, such as the food industry, and he feels that it makes Agri-King more up to date on the latest automation. The new system now automates many aspects of the system process and has improved the receiving process of the plant as well.

Sterling Systems & Controls offers full integration of raw material lot tracking and validation process of raw materials. Mr. Letcher plans to incorporate that new tracking technology and to draw on Sterling Systems & Control’s expertise when he is ready to take the next step in automating his plant.

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