In this interview with Jan Verhoeven, Technical Service Team Leader, and Gerard Straatman, Head Technician at Fransen Gerrits, you’ll read:
- Why Fransen Gerrits chose another Dinnissen Melasse Mixer after 42 years
- How the new mixer was installed and fully operational in just one day
- What makes the upgraded mixer more efficient and easier to maintain
“When the installation is running and you don’t have to think about it anymore, that’s when you know it’s right.” – Gerard Straatman, Head Technician at Fransen Gerrits
Time for an upgrade after 42 years
For more than four decades, a Melasse Mixer from Dinnissen had been running at the De Rips facility. “It lasted an incredibly long time,” says Head Technician Gerard Straatman. “But after 42 years, you could tell the mixer had reached the end of its life. The wall thickness was decreasing, and vibrations were increasing. We really got everything out of it that we could.” The decision to replace the mixer was made with care. “We considered other options,” Gerard explains, “but in the end, the reliability of the previous Dinnissen mixer and the personal relationship with Dinnissen made all the difference.” The mixer ensures that thick substances like melasse are evenly distributed over the dry product, allowing the entire mixture to be processed without clumping.
The same mixer, only better
Dinnissen still had all the original calculations and technical drawings of the previous mixer and was able to deliver the same installation with a few key improvements.
The new mixer is equipped with energy-efficient 30 kW electric motors, IE4 category. Its low-vibration drive system operates at noise levels below 80 dBA. The updated design also features larger inspection hatches, making maintenance easier and more accessible. All hatches are now fitted with safety switches, which were seamlessly integrated into the existing IT system. During testing at Dinnissen, the Melasse Mixer initially showed too much vibration. After realignment and additional testing, the installation was cleared for delivery to Fransen Gerrits.
From installation to operation in a single day
Gerard is pleased with the collaboration between Dinnissen and Fransen Gerrits. “The mixer was delivered weeks in advance, and we positioned it on the correct floor ourselves. On the day of installation, two technicians from Fransen Gerrits and two from Dinnissen had the new Melasse Mixer up and running within eight hours. Everything works exactly as it should.” For Gerard, that’s how it should be: “When the installation is running and you don’t have to think about it anymore, that’s when you know it’s right. The mixer does its job, and no one has to worry about it.”
“Dinnissen may be a major player, but the contact remains personal. You’re always speaking with someone who knows exactly what they’re talking about.” – Jan Verhoeven, Technical Service Team Leader at Fransen Gerrits
A major player with a personal touch
Jan Verhoeven, Technical Service Team Leader, also looks back positively on the collaboration. “Communication was clear, everything arrived on time, and things moved quickly,” he explains. “Dinnissen may be a major player, but the contact remains personal. You’re always speaking with someone who knows exactly what they’re talking about.”
When asked where Dinnissen could improve, Jan responds, “I honestly can’t think of anything, we’re very satisfied. They say what they do and do what they say. That makes working together easy.” The new Melasse Mixer has been fully integrated into the existing line and is now running at full capacity. Thanks to precise calibration and upgraded components, the mixing process is even more efficient than before. The installation operates quietly and smoothly, simplifying daily operations. And in a production line built on precision and experience, it’s reassuring to be able to rely on your technology. If this mixer lasts as long as its predecessor, Fransen Gerrits is set for years to come.
