The Australian Meat Processor Corporation’s (AMPC) investment into an AI-driven automated beef scribing system has delivered a range of benefits and return on investment. The system being trialled at Kilcoy Pastoral Company, has now been in operation for one and a half years. It operates two shifts per day, seven days a week.
Scribing is a process used to prepare the carcase for further breakdown in the production line. Beef scribes are the first cuts on the carcase which guide the removal of the smaller primal cuts. There are four beef scribes for each carcase (two vertical and two horizontal). The accuracy of these cuts can increase the weight of the primal cuts and reduce any trimming required.
AMPC Program Manager Stuart Shaw said, “A recent cost-benefit analysis was completed on the beef scribing system which showed the return on investment for the installation of the automated scribing system is between 1.15 and 1.21 years, resulting from a gross benefit per head of $4.92 to $5.19.
“We began this program of work to improve yield by increasing cutting accuracy, and the recent cost-benefit analysis proves that this is the case.”
The cost benefit analysis was completed by a Greenleaf Enterprises. The scribing system was reviewed over several days comparing the manual scribing accuracy to the automated scribing system. The review focussed on three carcase types: long-fed, mid-fed, and short-grain fed cattle. The accuracy of cuts was compared in meat cuts including cube roll, chuck, striploin, brisket and chick short rib. Tools were used to calculate the value impact per carcase. The analysis showed that the accuracy of the beef scribing system is more accurate than manual operators.
Stuart said, “The benefits created through improved accuracy produce more income by ensuring optimised saleable meat yield of the higher value cuts.”
An overall summary of the cost-benefit analysis showed:
- Less manual labour required for beef scribing and a reduction in saw operators' repetitive strain injuries
- Improved accuracy particularly for chuck and short rib scribe compared to manual operators
- A two-year payback period
- Accurate vertical scribes
- Ability to maintain speed
Read the cost-benefit analysis report.
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Read some past stories on the AI-driven beef scriber by clicking on the links below: