Hydraulics are critical in just about every industry in which people and machinery need to move. Including abattoirs! 

Flotek was recently called out to set up a new hydraulic rise and fall platform at Kilcoy Global Foods in Kyneton. 

So what’s a rise and fall platform you’re probably asking…

Rise and fall platforms in abattoirs are height‑adjustable work platforms that allow operators to move up and down with the carcass, so work can be carried out at an ergonomic, consistent height throughout the cutting process. So if the platform is not rising or falling – it’s really just a steel plate you’re standing on….

Rise and fall platforms improve productivity, reduce manual handling and support compliance with both workplace safety and meat inspection requirements.​ They are typically powered by hydraulics – and can lift and lower one or more workers over a stroke of roughly 1.5–2.5 metres.

The new additional rise and fall platform was being added to the production line at Kilcoy Global Foods, to help increase the number of beef units processed.

The HYDAC HYBOX was chosen because it’s the most affordable, compact and easy to service hydraulic power unit on the market. The HYBOX stands out mainly for its modular valve-block concept, wide configuration range, and the integrated software tool that lets you design and document a complete power unit in minutes. Flotek has installed 1000's of new Hydraulic Power Units (HPU) throughout Melbourne over the years, and the HYBOX is undoubtedly one of the absolute best. It's an easy to install, complete solution for a machine like the rise and fall platform.

The tricky part was the installation of the new pipework from the HYBOX, which is located in the pump room, on the roof along the outside wall. The new pipes needed to run down the external side wall, into the kill floor where the new to the rise and fall platform was installed. Whilst the installation of the new HYDAC HYBOX was quick and simple, running the new pipework took approximately two days.

Rise and fall platforms are not the only machines in an abattoir that rely on Hydraulics. The conveyers, hide pullers, jaw beakers, shoulder pullers, and hot cutters all use hydraulics to operate.

Final Thought

Hydraulics bring unmatched power, precision, and flexibility to abattoirs – not to mention consistent, reliable power for anything that moves. The meat industry is critical to the Australian way of life. So, it’s good to know hydraulics are there to keep it moving.