The role of engineers in oyster grading automation

In aquaculture, particularly oyster farming, efficiency and precision are vital to maximising productivity and ensuring the best product reaches the market. Traditional hand grading of oysters is labour-intensive, time-consuming, inconsistent and in recent times highly problematic due to tight labour markets. SED Graders vision grader, an advanced piece of machinery that automates the oyster grading process, brings a host of benefits to oyster farmers. Its innovation, development, and optimisation are due to the expertise of engineers.

The SED Graders vision grader is engineered to automate the separation, cleaning, measuring, sorting, counting, and bagging of oysters. This machine can increase productivity by up to 48%, a significant improvement that allows oyster farmers to reallocate labour to other critical areas of operation. Engineers have played a pivotal role in designing this machine to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively under varying conditions.

One of the standout features of the SED Graders vision grader is its ability to sort oysters with a count accuracy of up to 99%. This level of precision is achieved through sophisticated singulation technology, which ensures that even touching oysters are correctly identified and sorted. Engineers are responsible for developing and refining these technologies, employing advanced algorithms and sensor systems to maintain high accuracy. The result is a machine surpassing manual grading consistency, providing oyster farmers with a reliable operation tool.

Oyster farming often occurs in harsh and remote environments, requiring equipment to withstand tough conditions. The SED Graders vision grader, constructed from robust stainless steel, is engineered to be durable and reliable. Engineers carefully select materials and design components that can endure the demanding nature of oyster farming. This ensures the machinery remains functional over long periods, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Despite its technological complexity, the SED Graders vision grader is designed to be mechanically simple. This intentional simplicity allows for easy operation and minor repairs by farm staff. Engineers have streamlined the design to minimise the need for frequent servicing while incorporating user-friendly features that enable a single worker to operate the machine efficiently. The provision of worldwide after-sales support, including remote access via TeamViewer, underscores the importance of ongoing engineering support to address any issues that may arise.

Engineers have ensured that the SED Graders vision grader can be tailored with four, six, or eight-grade exits and adjustable bag sizes. This customisation capability allows farmers to optimise the machine for their needs, enhancing overall productivity. The seamless integration with the SED Graders juvenile grader and other ancillary equipment, such as feeders, conveyors, washers, and baggers, showcases our engineers’ comprehensive approach to creating a cohesive and efficient grading system.

Another significant advantage of the SED Graders vision grader is its use of cushioned air for sorting, which has been scientifically proven to be gentler on oysters than hand grading. Engineers developed this feature to ensure the delicate oysters are handled carefully, reducing damage and increasing the quality of the final product.

Our engineers play a crucial role in developing and optimising oyster grading automation. From ensuring durability and ease of use to enhancing productivity, reliability, and product quality for oyster farmers worldwide, our engineers are at the heart of creating our oyster grading machinery. Their expertise ensures that these machines solve the practical challenges of oyster grading.

SED Graders is the go-to engineering and innovation team for oyster grading innovations. With our experience in international markets, including New Zealand, North America, Canada, and Japan, we supply and service oyster and shellfish farms worldwide with superior oyster grading machines and accessory equipment. We are committed to tackling the challenges of oyster farming and boosting competitiveness for our customers.

If you have any inquiries or are contemplating the acquisition of a SED Graders oyster grading machine or upgrading your existing equipment, we invite you to contact us. Our expert team is poised to offer tailored solutions precisely aligned with your unique requirements and operational goals.