Pork belly trimmer offers precision with speed, manufacturer claims

Smoked pork bellies are typically run through a skinner to remove the hard rind, but some unwanted material remains due to their tapered shape. A second operation carried out manually with a straight knife is required to remove the remaining. Bettcher Industries claims its Whizard Series II Trimmer, Model 1400, removes more rind from smoked pork bellies in a single operation at greater speed and with greater precision compared to conventional methods. A serrated circular blade runs at about 1,000 rpm can be operated with greater ease and less skill than a straight blade because of its adjustable depth gauge, the company claims. The depth gauge limits the depth the trimmer cuts into the bellies, protecting a minimum yield level, allowing processors to focus on speed, claims the manufacturer. The trimmer's contoured handle is designed to reduce excess stress on the operator's hand and forearm, improving productivity, ergonomics, comfort and safety, the company claims. The blade and housing interface reduces "chatter" and heat, which improves operator conditions. Five interchangeable handle sizes, color-coded for easy identification, are available to suit operators and a hand-strap provides added control, claims Bettcher. The gear mesh design makes blade operation smoother, while the built-in steeling device button's position allows the faster and more convenient use of the steeling blades, the manufacturer claims. Maintenance and blade adjustment is made easier because of captive hex-head housing screws, which allow the removal and reinstallation of blade housing and blade by an operator. US Bettcher Industries manufactures precision cutting tools for food processing and operates in about 50 countries worldwide.