Plucking machines, as the name suggests, are machines used to remove plumage from poultry or in other animal processing contexts.
There are several models available, which vary in size and use. In our category, we have collected two of the main models on the market, basket models and roller models, both with the same function of removing excess plumage but with different speeds and capacities.
At AgriEuro, you can find different types of plucking machines for chickens and other birds, each with specific characteristics:
Plumage machines are essential tools for removing plumage from poultry such as chickens, ducks, turkeys and other farmyard or wild birds. These machines are designed to facilitate the plucking process, which would otherwise be very time-consuming and laborious if done manually. Poultry pluckers are particularly useful in contexts where efficiency is required, such as medium and large farms, but they are also used by small farmers and hunters who prepare game.
The use of plucking machines significantly reduces processing time and ensures uniform plucking, preserving the quality of the meat. Some models are designed for use with specific types of birds, such as:
Poultry pluckers consist of several key components that work together to ensure effective removal of plumage from birds. Each component has a specific function and contributes to the overall operation of the machine. The main elements that make up a plucking machine include:
Plucking machines for chickens and game operate using a rotating mechanism that utilises centrifugal force to remove plumage from birds.
For a correct and effective plucking procedure, it is also important how the animal is positioned inside the machine. It should be positioned with its back towards the bottom and its legs slightly bent upwards to facilitate the work of the machine.
The operating mechanism consists of a central body that rotates on itself. Distributed evenly on its walls are small, rigid rubber picker sticks that repeatedly come into contact with the animal, allowing for the almost total removal of the plumage.
It is possible that some of the plumage may still remain attached at the end of the procedure, in which case it is sufficient to finish the procedure by removing them directly by hand.
Some models feature a spray system that further improves the efficiency of the machine. During operation, water is sprayed onto the bird, helping to lubricate the surface and facilitate the removal of the plumage. This method not only speeds up the plucking process, but also helps to keep the animal's skin intact, reducing the risk of lacerations.
There are two main ways to start chicken pluckers:
Thrush plucking machines are designed to handle a wide range of birds, from chickens and quails to large birds such as turkeys and geese. Each model can be optimised for specific types of birds by adjusting the speed of the roller or basket and choosing the most suitable picker sticks. This allows the machine to adapt to different plumage sizes and strengths, ensuring optimal results in every situation.
Before carrying out the actual plucking phase, there are some preparatory procedures to be performed in order to obtain an optimal result at the end of the process:
The next phase is wetting, which consists of immersing the animal to be plucked in a container of hot water at a temperature between 62°C and 65°Cf or poultry, it is sufficient to immerse them for 30-40 seconds, while for palmiped, which have tougher skin, up to 2 minutes are required.
Cleaning and maintenance of these machines is fairly simple.
To clean them, simply use water to remove any processing residues from each component.
Maintenance is fairly limited, given the few components of the machine. The main precautions are for the picker sticks and the central motor.
Plucking machines offer several advantages over traditional manual plucking methods or other less sophisticated mechanical systems. These benefits make bird plucking machines an indispensable tool for both professional breeders and hunting enthusiasts who want to achieve optimal results in the shortest possible time.
There are several types of chicken pluckers available on the market, each designed to meet specific plucking needs and to adapt to different types of birds. Below is a brief overview of the main types of plucking machines.
Roller plucking machines are among the most commonly used machines for plucking small and medium-sized birds. They work by means of a rotating roller equipped with numerous rubber picker sticks strategically positioned to ensure uniform plucking. The roller, powered by an electric or manual motor, rotates at high speed, allowing the picker stick to firmly grasp the plumage and remove it from the bird's skin without damaging it.
This type of plucking machine is particularly appreciated for its efficiency and ease of use. Roller plucking machines are ideal for those who need to process poultry such as chickens, quails, pigeons and other birds of similar size. Thanks to the continuous rotation of the roller, these machines can complete the plucking process in a matter of minutes, making them perfect for those who need speed and precision.
The advantages of roller plucking machines include:
Basket plucking machines are designed to offer high plucking capacity, adapting to a wide range of birds, from the smallest to the largest. They work by means of a rotating basket inside which rubber or soft plastic fingers are mounted. The rotary motion of the basket allows the fingers to evenly strike the entire body of the bird, ensuring that all plumage is removed without damaging the meat.
This type of plucking machine is particularly suitable for large birds such as turkeys, geese and ducks, but is equally effective with smaller birds. The structure of the basket ensures that even the most stubborn plumage is removed, making these machines extremely versatile.
The main advantages of basket pluckers include:
Plucking machines are distinguished by a series of technical features that determine their efficiency, versatility and ease of use. Each feature contributes to making these machines suitable for specific operational requirements, both in domestic and professional settings. The main technical features of plucking machines are described in detail below.
External start-up is a feature that allows the plucking machine to be operated using an external device such as a drill or screwdriver. This system offers greater flexibility than electric start-up, allowing the plucking machine to be used in situations where electricity is not easily accessible. The drill or screwdriver connected directly to the roller or basket shaft provides the necessary force to rotate the machine, ensuring effective plucking.
Electric start is the most common method of operating a plucking machine. By connecting the machine to a power source, the electric motor is activated and begins to rotate the roller or basket at a preset speed. This type of start-up is ideal for continuous use and guarantees constant power, which is essential for maintaining plucking efficiency on birds of different sizes. In addition, electric start-up is particularly appreciated for its ease of use, as it simply requires connection to the mains and activation via a switch.
The rain system is one of the most common and effective methods for removing plumage. During the plucking process, water is sprayed continuously onto the bird, keeping the skin moist and facilitating the removal of plumage. This system not only speeds up the process, but also helps to reduce the risk of skin damage, improving the quality of the final result. In addition, the spray system helps to keep the machine clean by reducing the accumulation of plumage and other debris.
One of the most important features of chicken pluckers is their ability to adapt to different types of birds. The machines can be adjusted to handle a wide range of birds, including:
Choosing the right plucking machine for thrushes and chickens for your needs can make all the difference in terms of efficiency, quality of work and longevity of the machine. There are several considerations to make before purchasing, ranging from technical specifications to the types of birds to be processed. Here are some useful tips for purchasing a plucking machine.
Thrush plucking machines can be used by different types of users, each with specific needs. Here are some customer categories and recommended models based on their needs.
When choosing a plucking machine, the quality of the brand is a determining factor in ensuring high performance and long product life. AgriEuro offers some of the most reliable and respected brands in the plucking machine industry. Here is an overview of the main brands and their features.
Buying a plucking machine on AgriEuro offers numerous advantages that go beyond the simple quality of the product. Thanks to a wide selection of brands and models, AgriEuro is the go-to place for those looking for reliable machines suitable for all plucking needs. Here are some of the main reasons why it is worth buying on AgriEuro:
Buying a plucking machine on AgriEuro means relying on an e-commerce site that offers not only high-quality products, but also a comprehensive and reliable service. Whether you are a professional farmer, a hunter or a cooking enthusiast, AgriEuro has the right solution for you. Discover the best plucking machines available and take advantage of current offers to get the most out of your purchase.