Smeltzer Orchard Company
Overview
Smeltzer Orchard Co. is a six-generation agri-business based in Frankfort, Michigan that specializes in producing and distributing high-quality fruit including cherries, blueberries, and cranberries. Windemuller completed a significant upgrade project for Smeltzer, focusing on its pasteurization controls. Challenges arose from having to wait until the system was down for the season in order to perform the upgrade, requiring strategic planning and coordination. The system was a manual operation with no PLC. It was completed by installing a new backplate along with new controls, instrumentation, and programming, aiming to improve Smeltzer’s operational efficiency and reliability. Smeltzer has consistently chosen Windemuller as their trusted partner, marking this our third successful collaboration together. Our relationship began in August 2020 focusing on a design-build initiative to upgrade their facility controls with a new PLC and HMI system. Following this accomplishment, we began a second project in November 2020, with a multi-phase effort aimed at enhancing their automation system to ensure
product consistency. Throughout each project, our team demonstrated efficiency and effectiveness, delivering successful project outcomes that have generated positive feedback and repeat business from satisfied clients.
