Failed Pasteurizer Requires Custom Solution

Cheese Manufacturer, WI

Challenge:

A leading Wisconsin cheese manufacturer faced a critical problem: their prototype pasteurizer system had failed. The system was essential to safely process hundreds of different slurry-based food products without compromising flavor — and they needed a replacement fast. The new system had to be self-cleaning, operate around the clock, and require minimal operator involvement. On top of that, the customer wanted to salvage and reuse parts from the original prototype to help control costs.

Solution:

Crane Engineering stepped in with a full turn-key solution. Our team designed, built, and installed a custom pasteurization system engineered for high performance and long-term reliability. We strategically incorporated functional components from the original prototype to reduce waste and stay within budget, while upgrading the rest of the system with premium, food-grade materials and automation to support 24/7 operation.

Key features included:

• A self-cleaning design to meet stringent sanitary standards
• Automated controls to minimize manual intervention
• Compatibility with a wide range of slurry consistencies without impacting product flavor

Results:

The system Crane delivered quickly became mission-critical to the plant’s day-to-day operations. It runs continuously and efficiently, allowing the customer to meet production goals without unexpected shutdowns.

• 24/7 Operation: System runs continuously with minimal manual oversight
• Reliability: High-quality components reduce unplanned downtime and maintenance
• Cost Savings: Reuse of existing equipment helped lower capital investment
• Support: A custom preventative maintenance plan ensures ongoing system health
• Reduced Risk: Spare parts inventory now kept onsite to eliminate costly delays

Crane Engineering didn’t just replace a failed system — we helped the customer turn a critical setback into an operational success story, ensuring they can continue delivering high-quality dairy products without disruption.