FAQs
+ Is the machine expensive?
A machine usually costs less than your total knife room cost of ownership today. The machine typically ends up saving and making the plant money.
+ Do I need to understand robotics?
Plants and employees will not need to know anything about robots. The robots are self-contained and we can access them remotely if there are any software problems.
+ Is the machine difficult to operate?
The machine is very simple to run. An operator has only a few buttons to learn. With log-in permissions, more experienced technicians can change preferences for the machine, like grinding angle and stone dressing frequency.
+ Is the machine difficult to maintain?
We designed the machine with maintenance in mind. All components are easy to access and change if needed. The only thing that needs to be done daily is a coolant water change and a visual check. Monthly and yearly maintenance is relatively simple.
+ Can the machine do all sorts of knives?
The machine can handle most processing and food services knives.
+ Can a tray only hold one type of knife?
The machine can do mixed trays. The knives in a single tray can all be different.
+ How many knives can the machine do?
Depending on which model you choose, our machines can sharpen anywhere between 500 - 2400+ knives per day. Total output is about a knife every 30 seconds, depending on your mix of knives.
+ Can your machines hollow grind?
Yes. The machine can recognize, depending on your parameters, when a knife needs to be hollow ground and will do so before it takes the knife to the honer.
+ Does someone always have to be with the machine?
Currently, an operator needs to load and unload the machine. A queueing system is in the works for the future.
+ What is your service like?
While the machine is robust and problems are few, we want to ensure we stay in frequent contact with our customers and machines. The machine will be regularly serviced up to 2 times per year, and of course, we are on call for any questions.
+ Knives are important. What happens if the machine goes down?
Our machines rarely go down, but we work with each location to build a redundancy plan. Our on-call product support and field service teams respond very quickly to any issues that arise.
+ What are space and power requirements?
The footprint of the machine installed is 156” X 125” with doors open and requires 220V 3-phase power and an air supply.
+ Where is the machine made?
Austin, Texas, U.S.A.
+ Do you provide training?
Yes, while the machine is very easy to operate, we provide comprehensive training to customer operators or technicians and will train new operators as they start.
+ My knife volume is lower than most locations. Is there a way to use a robot without leasing?
There are other options available to take advantage of our machine technology and the knife edges it creates.
+ What are yearly consumable costs?
For the most part, consumables are what you’re familiar with for the last 50 years - stones, belts, pumps. All other components are warrantied and have long service lives.