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From our first prototype almost two decades ago, SED Graders has invested in technology, combing the globe for modernisation techniques, enabling our team to not just design, but also build the most advanced oyster sorting machines exclusively for the world’s oyster farmers.
From a sketch to powerful 3D modelling, laser cutting and 3D printing
When SED was first approached by local Australian Tasmanian oyster farmers to find a solution for oyster sorting at harvest time, our engineering brains went into overdrive.
Our chief engineer sharpened his pencil and began sketching designs, pencilling moving parts, shapes, doors, chutes and conveyor systems.
Seven years later, in 2001, the first prototype was built. Loaded onto the back of a small hire truck, we transported our sorting machine over to South Australia, driving from one end of the state to the other, demonstrating the invention to oyster farmers all along the South Australian coastline.
It is a long way since those early days of drawing boards, pencils and set squares
Our road trips proved to be an essential part of product development. The feedback from farmers helped shape each evolving version, which sees our machines automate the time consuming task of sorting harvested oysters.
AutoCAD
Today, SED employs powerful 3D digital design software programs. Our designers and engineers create every moving part, housing, joint and critical component in the latest version of AutoCAD software.
Seeing the design in 3D, pasting sections together, accurately forecasting durability, longevity and effectiveness gives our oyster sorting machines the influential commercial edge.
Laser Cutting
Once our designs pass digital quality control, the next step is precision laser cutting. Each section meets exacting standards – precise, clean and resulting in an unadulterated finish.
Laser cutting ensures accuracy, guarantees integrity of the construction material, prevents human error, reduces waste and saves time.
Using precise laser cutting is critical to the sorting machine’s capability to deliver on its purpose. Accuracy is paramount when harvesting oysters and accuracy in engineering is non-negotiable.
SED invested in laser cutting technologies for our in-house manufacturing. This investment gives us the advantage of direct intent ordering with our metal suppliers. We can cut to order without the drawback of lead time and delivery expenses. This innovation leads into our LEAN manufacturing vision, where the customers’ needs are at the forefront of assembly flow.
3D Printing
SED identified the benefits and technological advancements in 3D printing. Our engineered nozzles utilise this technology and can only be produced using 3D printing.
Traditional tooling methods lack the required flexibility to make purpose designed parts. 3D printing closes this loop, enabling our design team to create parts with improved accuracy, ensuring each part is ‘fit for purpose’ and 3D printed to our exacting standards.
Technology is only as good as
the people driving it
At SED, we continue to invest in technology; however, it is just as important to keep investing in our people. Our team of engineers, designers and operators keep pace with technology. Training, upskilling and constantly exploring and experimenting with new ideas, new technologies and materials are an essential element in the success of our oyster sorting machines.
Listening to the farmers, understanding the needs and creating solutions that keep our customers ahead of the curve are what drives our investment in technology and in our people.
When it is time for your farm to automate its sorting processes, contact our friendly team and let our almost two decades of experience in designing and manufacturing successful oyster sorting machines streamline your product to market capabilities.