Frequently Asked Questions

  • General
    • Does Laitram offer their equipment for lease as well as sale?
      • Yes. In addition to selling our equipment, Laitram has a lease program which is offered in areas where the customer can be serviced by a Laitram serviceman stationed in that area or by a nearby Laitram service center. For more information on the lease program and its benefits, go to Laitram Lease Program.
    • Does Laitram offer any other equipment besides shrimp peeling equipment?
      • Yes. In addition to shrimp peeling systems for both warm and cold water shrimp, we have developed steam cooking and chilling equipment for various seafood applications, as well as shrimp grading systems. For more information on all of our equipment, see the Products section.
    • How do I obtain a price for Laitram equipment?
      • Prices and/or quotations for equipment can be obtained by contacting a Laitram Sales Representative in your area (see Sales & Services Worldwide Locator Map), or by calling 1-800-533-8253 or 504-733-6000.
    • Can I order equipment through the Internet?
      • Since our equipment is customized based on variables such as product species, desired capacity, and plant size, it is not possible for us to determine a price until we are able to define each customer's specific needs. To discuss your specific needs, please contact a Laitram Machinery Sales Representative (see Sales & Services Worldwide Locator Map) for more details.
    • How long does it take to get a line of equipment from the time I place an order?
      • Standard Lead (Shipping) Time Policy Laitram Machinery’s standard lead time to ship equipment orders is 10 – 12 weeks from Laitram Machinery’s order confirmation, following receipt by Laitram Machinery of complete documentation and required funds from customer. Lead times may be extended due to manufacturing constraints or size of customer’s order. Depending on Laitram Machinery’s manufacturing capacity, equipment may be shipped earlier than the standard lead time.
        Expedited Shipping Policy** At its sole option, Laitram Machinery may agree to a guaranteed expedited ship date. The fee to be paid by customer for a guaranteed expedited ship date is 5% of the equipment price. If Laitram Machinery fails to ship by the expedited date, the 5% expediting fee will be refunded and freight will be paid by Laitram Machinery for that part of the order that was shipped late. The Expedited Shipping Policy allows Laitram Machinery to better coordinate its production resources so as to control manufacturing costs.
        ** Laitram Machinery shall not be liable for any delay directly or indirectly resulting from, or contributed to by, any circumstance beyond Laitram Machinery’s control, including, but not limited to, an act of God, hurricane, fire, flood, or any labor dispute or strikes involving carriers.
    • I'd like to see your equipment operating in a processing plant environment. Can this be arranged?
      • Oftentimes, an existing customer will open their plant to us for the purpose of taking an interested processor in to see Laitram equipment in operation. For more information on this, contact your Laitram Sales Representative (see Sales & Services Worldwide Locator Map).
    • Can Laitram assist me with plant layout and design?
      • Yes. If you are in need of a new processing solution for your plant and would like to have us design a floor plan, contact your Territory Manager.
  • Products
    • Peeling Equipment
      • What purpose does the Rock Tank serve in helping my bottom line?
        • The most important task your Rock Tank can perform to affect yield is to keep your shrimp free of rocks, shells or other debris. Debris mixed with the shrimp runs the risk of tearing and notching the rubber rollers during peeling. Torn and damaged rollers may pull meat from the shrimp instead of pinching the shell, cutting into your yield. Keeping the rock tank clean and properly fed (not overloaded) will maximize debris removal and minimize damage to the shrimp.
      • I process several different sizes of shrimp in your warm-water peeling system (Model A), and would like to improve the quality of the finished product. Any suggestions?
        • Consider grading your shrimp before it enters the processing line, especially if size varies widely among your batches. Pre-grading creates more consistently sized batches, allowing you to make appropriate peeler adjustments for each size.
          By pre-grading your shrimp into small, medium, and large categories, you can adjust your peeler to maximize efficiency and product quality for each size category.
      • Will uneven distribution of shrimp on my feed tank’s conveyor belt affect the peeling process?
        • Yes – uneven distribution can actually reduce yield and product quality. Tail shell removal must be completed in the upper section of the peeler, but if shrimp overcrowd the peeler’s upper rollers as they move off the conveyor belt, tail shell removal decreases. This leads to more tail pinching (tail meat removal) on the lower section of the peeler and the cleaner.
          To minimize the uneven distribution: 1) adjust the feed tank’s paddle to decrease the number of shrimp on the conveyor, 2) adjust the height of the peeler’s finger frame and rollers to control throughput, and 3) adjust the amount of water used.
      • Your Lease Program provides roller changes every 30,000 revolutions for the Model A Peeler and every 35,000 revolutions for the Model PCA Peeler (or cold water peelers). Why?
        • At 30,000 revolutions, gaps begin to form between the Model A Peeler’s upper rollers and inserts. This is due to the shrimp’s horns scraping and nicking the roller surface. As a result, the rollers pinch off the last section of the shrimp’s tail during processing. A decrease in the amount of shrimp processed reduces overall yield.
          The Model PCA Peeler requires roller changes every 35,000 revolutions because cold water shrimp are cooked before peeling and do not damage the rollers as quickly as warm water shrimp.
      • I am interested in adding a Model S Roller Separator to my shrimp processing system, but someone told me that the Separator causes yield loss. Is this true?
        • No. When operated and adjusted properly, the Model S (or Model PCS) only removes the loose unwanted parts of the shrimp. The Separator’s smooth stainless steel rollers gently remove any loose shell and waste that was detached by the Model C (or Model PCC) Cleaner. The loose shell and waste are pulled down between the rollers as the peeled meat travels down the top of the rollers.
      • We are looking for ways to improve the water consumption of our peeling line. What do you recommend?
        • Laitram offers two waste water management systems that can either filter waste water prior to disposal (Model WFS Water Filtration System) or reuse the water during processing (Model WRS Water Recirculation System). In addition to reducing water consumption by 70%, these systems also help meet sanitary and environmental regulations.
          Both systems can process up to 1,514 liters (400 gallons) per minute. That’s enough to support up to 4 Laitram peelers.
      • How do I adjust my Cleaner to minimize product damage?
        • Monitoring the Cleaner’s water level is key to preserving product quality and maintaining the optimal cleaning level. To determine the right water level for your Cleaner, the operator should observe the condition of the shrimp as they exit the Peeler, and again as they exit the Cleaner:
      • What exactly is the purpose of the Insert Cleaner and how does it work?
        • The Insert Cleaner is used to remove shell wrap that forms around the inserts over time. With the accumulation of shell wrap, the inserts either won’t turn or will loose their peeling power due to lack of friction. The Insert Cleaner is used most readily in the cold water market where shell wrap is more commonly found.
          The Insert Cleaner is a frame with several rows of spray nozzles that moves across the peeling bed spraying high-pressure water down onto the inserts. The interval of time in between sprays or movements can be adjusted depending on the amount of shell wrap that develops during the peeling process.
      • How much product can a shrimp peeler peel per hour?
        • Laitram's product line includes peeling equipment for warm-water shrimp species and cold-water species. The Warm Water Shrimp Peeling System can process approximately 1,000 lbs. per hour of head-on shrimp. The Cold Water Peeling System can process approximately 750 lbs. per hour of head-on shrimp. (Actual capacity depends on a number of different factors such as age and quality of raw material, size range, etc.)
      • Is a Laitram peeler the only piece of equipment that I need if I want to machine peel shrimp?
        • In order to properly and completely peel your shrimp, there are several pieces of equipment that work together as a system. For all of the equipment that is recommended in the processing system, go to Shrimp Peeling Equipment.
    • Cooking Equipment
      • Will adding more steam to my cooker increase the temperature beyond 212°F / 100°C, thus allowing me to cook my product quicker?
        • If your Laitram CT type cooker is adjusted properly, adding steam to the cooker will not increase the temperature inside the cook chamber. The cookers are designed to cook products at the temperature of pure saturated steam under atmospheric conditions. Because this temperature is dictated by atmospheric pressure, which is relatively constant, the operating temperature is usually 212°F (100°C). Once the cooker reaches operating temperature, adding more steam will only cause steam to escape from the open bottom of the cooker.
      • My Model CTX Steam Cooker is giving an inconsistent cook. I sometimes find raw product among the cooked product, so I’ve had to increase my cook time. What could be causing this problem?
        • You may simply need to clean your Model CTX’s steam/cooker plate. During production, fats, proteins and enzymes drop through the belt and onto the steam/cooker plate, eventually clogging the small holes that emit steam. So, in addition to hosing down the belt and feed tank after production, you’ll need to clean your cooker plate daily. This will extend the life of your cooker and ensure consistent cooking.
      • How are your FC Cookers (or Forced Convection cookers) different from a traditional steam cooker?
        • Conventional steam cookers operate at or near 100°C, applying pure steam and overcooking the exterior of the shrimp - reducing yield. Laitram’s FC (forced convection) patented technology uses a homogenized steam and air mixture and allows the flexibility to cook at a pre-set constant temperature of between 85-90°C (adjustable in 1° increments). Extensive testing and customer feedback has shown significant yield and quality improvements, as well as a safer biological product.
          For more information on our Forced Convection Cooking, click here.
    • Grading Equipment
      • Why should I pre-grade prior to peeling and cooking? What product does Laitram offer to accomplish this?
        • Whether peeling or cooking, it is critical to limit the sizes that are being processed to a small range. Peeling or cooking shrimp from a large range of sizes at the same time will lead to two results: 1) significant yield loss by over-peeling or over-cooking the smaller sizes, or 2) under-peeled or undercooked (raw) product.
          Laitram offers the LG 70 Grading System, which was designed specifically for pre-grading use. The LG 70 separates shrimp into small, medium and large so that peeling and cooking processes can be optimized for the best results.
  • Service
    • Are there any spare parts included when ordering Laitram equipment?
      • If a lease order is placed, then basic spare parts are included in the shipment depending on the mix of equipment and the distance from a Laitram service center. If equipment is purchased, spare parts kits can be ordered separately for most Laitram equipment.
    • Who do I contact if my equipment needs repair?
      • If you are located in an area where there is a Laitram serviceman stationed, you should contact that person. If not, then contact the Laitram Service Department in our home office in New Orleans.
    • Where are Laitram Service representatives located? How can I get in-touch with them?
      • Service representatives are located in the following areas: 1) the U.S. Gulf Coast (specifically Alabama, Louisiana, & Mississippi), 2) Newfoundland, Canada, 3) the U.S. West Coast (specifically Washington), and 4) Denmark. They can be reached by phone, fax, or beeper. For specific contact information, go to Sales & Worldwide Locator Map .
    • Does Laitram have a warranty on their equipment?
      • Yes. Laitram warrants against defects in parts, materials and workmanship of all new and factory-reconditioned equipment for a period of (1) one year from the purchaser's receipt of equipment. The warranty does not extend in any way to parts subject to wear and tear.
    • How do I clean my Laitram equipment?
      • With all Laitram equipment being made from durable stainless steel, a general cleaning of each machine should involve the following steps: 1) rinse with high-pressure wash or spray, 2) apply a disinfectant of your choice, using the directions for that specific product, and 3) rinse again with fresh water to remove all disinfectant. Be sure to clean thoroughly in all tight/narrow areas where waste or dirt can accumulate. (Note: Be sure to lubricate all bearings AFTER the final rinse.)
    • How do I clean the rollers on my peeling machine?
      • Because they are the most important part of peeling equipment, the rollers need special attention when being cleaned. If the rollers are not cleaned properly, the machine simply will lose its peeling power.
        To clean them, use steam or high pressure water and a scrubbing pad. (Steel wool SHOULD NOT be used, as it would leave debris on the rollers that will contaminate your product.) The rollers should be cleaned all the way around the perimeter of each, and you should notice the roller surface going from a yellowish color to a beige or white color. ( Note: Acid is sometimes used to clean the peeling rollers; however, extra care should be taken when using acids, as they can be harmful to the frame and other components of the machine.)
    • I know Laitram provides ongoing maintenance, repair, and replacement parts to lease customers – but do you offer the same benefits to customers who own their equipment?
      • We understand that operational efficiency is crucial to today’s competitive seafood industry. That’s why we offer the Laitram Service Advantage. We guarantee, in writing, that we’ll be there when you need us.
        To learn more about the Laitram Service Advantage, click here.
    • How often should I lubricate the gear reducer on my Model A (or Model PCA) Peeler?
      • To prevent premature parts wear and breakage, Laitram strongly recommends lubricating your gear reducers at least once a week, especially if the peeler(s) operate 24 hours a day. The correct grease to use is multipurpose grease (NLGI No. 2). Do not use food grade grease because it has inferior lubricating properties.
    • We have expanded our processing plant and hired some new employees. Does Laitram Machinery provide equipment training programs for new plant personnel?
      • Yes. Our Service Department can provide in-house training for your plant personnel (equipment operators, maintenance crews, etc.). The training session is given by an experienced Laitram Machinery Service Technician and covers equipment operation, maintenance and cleaning. You can schedule these training sessions at any time during the year.
    • Cleaning the rollers on my peeling lines is important for maintaining good sanitation, but what positive effects does it have on the performance of my peeling line, if any?
      • Routine cleaning of your rollers can do a lot to keep both your production rate high as well as improve the quality of your peeled product. Over time, protein builds up on the rubber, which will affect the rollers ability to squeeze the shrimp. Cleaning your rollers every day, or even every shift, will keep them in a “like new” state and operating at top efficiency.
    • The liner on my Cleaner is worn and has grooves on it. Should I replace it?
      • A worn or damaged liner will result in broken shrimp, so you want to make sure the wheels are always in contact with a smooth surface. However, the 2-inch space between Cleaner wheels gives you two extra liner wear positions (1 inch = 1 wear position). By moving the pipe assembly to a new wear position, you can start a new liner life cycle. Essentially, you can wear down your liner three times before replacing it.
        For more information, contact our Service Department at (504) 733 – 6000.
    • How often should I change my Deveiner blades?
      • That depends on your product and the type of water you use. Rock shrimp veins, for example, typically harbor a lot of sand which dulls the Deveiner blades very quickly. So processors running rock shrimp must change blades every 3-4 hours.
        However, processors running a softer product like white gulf shrimp could devein for 4-5 days before replacing their blades. Also, processors who use well water, which is high in iron content, will have to replace blades sooner than those who use municipal water.
    • How can I control yield loss in my Deveiner?
      • Basically, two problems cause Deveiner yield loss: inconsistent vein removal and incomplete back-cutting. You can control these problems by monitoring 1) the water level and 2) the Deveiner blades.
        1) The water level is the most significant factor in deveiner yield loss. Adjust your water level according to the symptoms: increase the water level to eliminate “bare backs” and reduce the level for better vein removal.
        2) Dull or damaged blades won’t cut the shrimp backs properly to expose the vein. Then the tumbler cuts away back meat, reducing your yield. If your shrimp aren’t cut correctly, check your blades and replace them if necessary.
    • Does it matter what type of grease I use in my Automatic Greasing System?
      • Yes. Some types of grease may become overly tacky or chalky with age, causing the Automatic Greasing System to function erratically. We recommend using food-grade grease that meets USDA H1 standards, as well as FDA requirements for incidental food contact having a NLGI#2 grade.
        Recommended grease types include: 1)Mobile FM 102 (highest recommendation),2) AMSOIL GPF Synthetic, and 3) Schaeffer #271 Food Grade
    • We try to maximize yield and product rates by changing inserts every time we peel a different shrimp product (new size, species, condition, etc.), but this can be time consuming. Is there a fast and simple way to change inserts on Laitram’s peelers?
      • Yes – Laitram’s Quick-Release Hold-Down System reduces insert replacement time to as little as 15 minutes per peeler. Our new system replaces the old coil spring, wingnut, and flat bracket assembly with a pre-tensioned spring, hook, and round tubing. Workers simply pull the hook away from the tubing and snap it back in place later.
        The Quick-Release Hold-Down System also ensures consistent peeling and prevents wear since it automatically maintains proper tension and facilitates uniform load sharing between each pair of inserts.
    • How much grease can the Remote Greasing System handle when used with a Model A Warm Water Shrimp Peeler?
      • Each of the three grease distribution blocks has a different total grease requirement, but the totals are very simple to gauge:
        Peeler block: To fully lubricate the peeler, the main greasing block’s cycle pin should engage 35-40 times per grease session, which will take approximately 2 oz. of grease.
        Finger frame block: When grease is visibly escaping from the cam roller bearings (5-7 cycles) the finger frame is fully lubricated.
        Feed tank block: When grease is visibly escaping from the ¾” paddle bearing (3-5 cycles), the feed tank is fully lubricated.
    • When it comes time to replace the dogleg bearings on my AG70 Adjustable Grading System, why should I purchase them from Laitram?
      • When the AG 70 was designed, critical parts such as the dogleg bearings were spec’d out to tight standards to be able to handle the load of the machine and maintain its performance and accuracy. By simply fitting the AG 70 with an inferior bearing, performance will eventually suffer and the other maintenance-related issues may occur. For more information, please see the preventive maintenance section of your grader’s operation manual or call our Service Department at 504-733-6000.