Dust has been a key concern for Jan Tuinstra BV, a potato trader in Herkingen, South Holland, for decades. "If you keep something clean, you don't move it" is the family business's motto. Tuinstra is satisfied with the use of the extraction system from Jongejans Luchttechniek. During the relocation, the employees set up everything exactly as it was in the old situation, while also doubling the capacity. A new sealing fume fan is a real asset. Jongejans Luchttechniek contributed to the project and took care of all the piping and installation work. "It was truly a collaborative effort."
Potatoes from the surrounding area have been processed at Jan Tuinstra BV in Herkingen for decades. On average, thousands of tons of potatoes are processed annually, sorted and packed into five-kilo bags, big bags, and bulk bags. This is automated, and it's striking that all the machines are Dutch-made. Processing such quantities of agricultural products means dust formation is unavoidable. "Good cleaning has always been a top priority for us. We hate mess and try to keep it clean. We sweep every day. As long as it's clean, nothing can be moved," says Wim Tuinstra.
Since the extractor was installed, the results have improved significantly. The lint trap filters are cleaned daily. The dust container is also emptied regularly. "All that dust that normally settles on the floor or gets into your nose," Wim Tuinstra points out. "That's a strange thought."
All installations have essentially been moved to the new processing hall. This also applies to the filter installation, which was purchased from Jongejans some fifteen years ago but will still be in use for many years to come. Jongejans Air Technology took care of the piping and installation work. "We designed everything so we could move the machines ourselves. We did, however, maintain contact with the machine manufacturers. Getting everything to fit was a complex puzzle. But we succeeded, and the lines could be transferred almost exactly. Every detail is perfect, and we're very proud of that." The spacious layout makes scaling up capacity easy. "We even have the potential to double the line's capacity, with little or no renovation. We also discussed the future with Jongejans Air Technology, for example, building the inspection room high enough to allow for overpressure."
Moving was a conscious decision. "We took the opportunity to improve every detail wherever possible, with input from within, because our expert staff work with the lines daily and know exactly what can and cannot be done." The machines are still relatively new and in good condition. "We've always handled regular maintenance ourselves, which makes a huge difference. That's where the knowledge and expertise lies," analyzes Wim Tuinstra.
New is the fan and extraction system for smoke generated during the sealing process. "Sealing smoke, which is released during the burning of polyplastic, produces a very unpleasant odor. Therefore, the sealing smoke fans offer immediate added value from a comfort perspective." When sealing smoke is extracted simultaneously with dust, the ducts quickly become clogged. Therefore, a separate extraction system and a fan specially developed by Jongejans Luchttechniek, which does not block, were chosen.
Long-term collaboration
Jan Tuinstra BV has been a customer of Jongejans Luchttechniek from the very beginning. "Dust is a real issue," explains Vincent Tuinstra. "An investment in an extraction system doesn't just pay for itself. You really need to keep the long-term perspective in mind, and the consequences for the people who have to work in dust or fumes from sealing."
The oldest shed dates from 1979 and was expanded in three sections over the following years. A new hall was built six years ago. Last year, the new processing hall was filled with the (mostly) existing machines, which were refitted. Logistically, the layout of our halls is logical.
Vincent Tuinstra explains that the design of the new building was primarily aimed at increasing capacity. He's pleased with the results. This also applies to the extraction systems. "It's difficult to put into words what a system like this will bring you. It's certainly much more pleasant to work with, and you immediately notice when the system isn't running. We also believe that dust extraction reduces wear and tear and prevents downtime."
