Hemp Processing

26 Nov 2024

Ken Mills Engineering (KME) has installed a highly efficient bale breaker for a uk hemp processing company, making the start of their production line smoother and more effective. The bale breaker is a key piece of equipment designed to unpack and feed hemp bales into their decortication system consistently, with minimal manual effort. This improvement not only saves labor but also ensures the processing line runs more reliably from the start.

Bale breaker for Hemp process, feeding bales of hemp into the decortication system

When hemp bales come in from the field, they’re tightly packed and tough to handle manually. The KME bale breaker solves this problem by carefully breaking apart the bales and feeding the loose material steadily into the decortication system. This system separates the hemp into its two main components: strong fibers used for textiles and construction materials like hempcrete, and softer shiv, which is ideal for horse bedding and other absorbent products. By feeding the decorticator at a consistent rate, the bale breaker helps improve the quality and efficiency of the entire process.

To further enhance the operation, KME also tested the hemp on their heavy-light separation unit. This equipment is designed to remove stones, dirt, and other debris that can get mixed into the bales during harvesting. By cleaning the hemp early in the process, the machinery downstream is protected from wear and tear, reducing maintenance needs and downtime. Cleaner material also means higher-quality end products, which is especially important for industries like construction and animal care.

With the KME bale breaker in place, the hemp processor can focus on producing top-grade fibers and shiv with less manual intervention and fewer delays. The system not only speeds up the process but also ensures the materials meet the high standards demanded by eco-friendly industries.

hemp fibre and hemp shiv after decortication

Ken Mills Engineering continues to provide innovative solutions that make industrial processes simpler, more efficient, and better for the environment.

Take a look at our video of the bale breaker at the beginning of the process.