FAQ’s
Kempink tester

Why should I implement a different test method?
The Kempink method represents a significant improvement over traditional test methods in several respects. The most important advantage is reproducibility: results are consistent across the same tester, different Kempink testers, different locations, and even across different batches with identical formulations.
What are the differences in PDI compared to other testers?
The Kempink tester widens the effective bandwidth of the PDI (Pellet Durability Index), providing a clearer and more realistic view of pellet quality. The decimal precision becomes less relevant. Desired quality can be defined within a ±5% range, rather than tenths of a percent. Think of it as the difference between measuring with a tape measure versus a micrometer.
Can I still compare results from old test methods/testers?
There is always a relative relationship between “good” and “poor” performance across all testers. However, there is no scientifically valid conversion factor that applies to all feed types and animal categories. During the transition phase, parallel testing can help build understanding, but a new benchmark will quickly emerge based on the Kempink tester.
How is the test performed technically?
Inside a cylindrical chamber with an integrated sieve, a shaft with uniquely shaped blades rotates. These blades generate a controlled airflow in which pellets are centrifuged while being sieved simultaneously. Test duration and rotational speed are precisely controlled via a PLC and frequency inverter, ensuring identical test conditions every time.
How do other testers differ technically?
Some testers use vacuum motors, while others apply purely mechanical stress to the pellets. Due to factors such as heat generation, wear, and design variability, results between different testers are not comparable. Even repeated tests on the same device can produce deviations.
How does the sample reach the Ctrl?

The Ctrl interfaces directly with your factory automation system. Samples are delivered automatically to the tester without manual handling. The system activates from standby the moment a sample arrives. No operator involvement is required at any point in the sample collection or testing cycle.

Is the test result automatically transferred to our plant automation system?
The laboratory tester operates stand-alone and is not connected to a higher-level system.
The in-line tester, however, offers full modern communication capabilities for exporting test data.
How can I determine bulk density using the Kempink tester?
This function is available in the in-line Kempink tester, which measures a fixed volume. After testing, the total weight is determined, providing bulk density as a key quality parameter.
This value is also useful for optimizing bulk truck loading and transport planning.
Why can’t I always produce the best pellets?
A major challenge in feed production is the highly variable quality and composition of raw materials. If you always produce the “best possible pellets” from the best possible inputs, product quality (durability) will fluctuate just as much as the input materials.
Would your customers appreciate inconsistent product performance?
What do you mean by consistent quality?
To avoid delivering fluctuating quality, it is better to aim for a stable, controlled average quality. This ensures that customers consistently receive what they expect.
At the same time, all available process variables can be optimized to ensure that this average quality is as high as possible.
How does the Kempink Tester Ctrl predict quality?
All factors influencing product quality can be measured and recorded per batch — this is your data. By linking this data to pellet quality (PDI), a learning model is created using machine learning. This model allows operators to predict the required machine settings to achieve the desired product quality under current conditions.
What is the relationship between PDI and energy consumption?
In most cases, achieving a higher PDI requires increased mechanical input from the production line, resulting in higher energy consumption. Producing above the required PDI therefore leads to unnecessary energy use.
Where else can cost savings be achieved?
Increased machine load not only raises energy consumption but also accelerates wear on motors, bearings, shafts, dies, and other components. This results in: More frequent maintenance, Increased unplanned downtime, Higher spare part costs. Additionally, optimizing machine utilization (e.g. reducing idle running) and improving production planning can increase capacity — without requiring major capital investments.
Can we continue to use our existing sampling method?
Yes, often you can. If your current sampling method is reliable and representative, it can usually be maintained or expanded. It is important that the samples converge at a single point and that samples from different press lines can be presented individually to the tester or packager. Our experts can assess together with you whether the existing sampling method is suitable for this.

Is the sampling method part of the subscription?
Usually not. The required infrastructure for automated sampling is typically installed as a one-time investment.Is it always necessary to install a pneumatic vacuum transport system to transport the samples to the tester and/or sample packager?No, not always. If the samples can be guided to the tester and/or packager via sufficiently vertical drop pipes, a pneumatic transport system is often not necessary.
If, in addition to testing and packaging pellets, I also want to package raw materials and/or meal or layer feed for track & trace (retained samples), can that be done with the same transport system?
Yes, in many cases it can. Whether this is possible depends mainly on the capacity of the system and the number of samples that need to be tested and packaged per hour. Our advisors will be happy to help you determine what is possible in your factory.

FAQ’s
Quality-as-a-Service

WEMO-techniek delivers its Inline PDI measurement and sampling systems as Quality-as-a-Service (QaaS). This page answers the questions most commonly asked by production managers, operations directors, financial controllers, and procurement teams considering a QaaS subscription.

 

What is Quality-as-a-Service (QaaS)?
Quality-as-a-Service (QaaS) is WEMO-techniek’s delivery model for its Inline PDI measurement and retention sampling systems. Instead of selling equipment as a capital asset, WEMO retains ownership of the hardware and takes full responsibility for its performance, calibration, and maintenance. The customer pays a fixed monthly service fee and a one-time implementation cost. There is no capital expenditure, no maintenance variability, and no depreciation. The QaaS model is built on a straightforward logic: when WEMO owns the hardware, WEMO has a direct operational interest in the system performing to specification at all times.
Which WEMO products are available as Quality-as-a-Service?
Three products are delivered as QaaS: the Inline Kempink Tester, the Inline Kempink Tester Ctrl, and the Inline Packing & Coding System. These three products can be subscribed to individually or in combination under a single monthly fee. The Laboratory Kempink Tester is sold as a capital asset and is not available as QaaS.
What does the monthly service fee cover?
The monthly service fee includes:
✓ WEMO’s ownership of the hardware and full performance responsibility
✓ All maintenance, repairs, and replacement parts
✓ Periodic calibration and certification of the measurement system
✓ Remote diagnostics and support via secure VPN connection (Ewon router)
✓ Software updates and platform access (Innius, for Ctrl users)
✓ SLA with agreed response times for service requests
What are the one-time implementation costs?
Implementation costs cover the physical installation of the hardware on the production line, the PLC and MES integration, initial sensor configuration, and operator training on the dashboard and system. The exact implementation cost depends on the specific product, the number of pressing lines, the existing automation infrastructure, and any site-specific integration requirements. WEMO provides a fixed implementation cost quote as part of the QaaS proposal. There are no hidden costs beyond the quoted implementation fee and the ongoing monthly service fee.
Who owns the hardware?
WEMO-techniek retains ownership of all hardware supplied under a QaaS subscription throughout the duration of the contract. The customer hosts the hardware on their production site but does not own it. This arrangement means WEMO carries the capital risk, the depreciation risk, and the performance risk of the hardware — not the customer.
Who owns the quality data generated by the system?
The customer owns all quality data generated by WEMO’s systems. PDI measurement values, prediction logs, adjustment recommendations, and retention sample confirmations are the customer’s property. WEMO does not sell, share, or use customer production data for any commercial purpose. Data is stored via the Innius platform and can be exported by the customer in standard formats. WEMO may access data for the sole purpose of providing remote diagnostics and maintenance support, with the customer’s knowledge and under applicable data processing agreements.
What happens if the system breaks down or requires unplanned maintenance?
Under the QaaS model, unplanned maintenance and breakdowns are WEMO’s responsibility. WEMO’s service team responds according to the SLA agreed at the start of the subscription. Remote diagnostics are available in real time via the VPN connection through the Ewon router, which allows many issues to be resolved without requiring an on-site visit. Where on-site intervention is required, the SLA governs the response time based on the criticality of the production environment.
What are the exit conditions — how does a QaaS contract end?
QaaS subscriptions are governed by a contract with defined terms, notice periods, and exit conditions. At the agreed end of the subscription period or following the notice period, WEMO retrieves the hardware from the customer’s production site. There are no residual ownership obligations or asset disposal costs for the customer. Specific notice periods, minimum contract duration, and any associated exit terms are specified in the individual QaaS contract.
How does QaaS compare financially to buying the equipment outright?

The table below compares the two models across the dimensions that typically matter most to a financial controller or procurement team.

Dimension

Direct purchase (CAPEX)

Quality-as-a-Service (OPEX)

Capital outlay

Full purchase price at point of order

Zero — one-time implementation cost only

Maintenance costs

Variable and unpredictable

Fixed — fully included in monthly fee

Performance responsibility

Yours

WEMO’s — contractual commitment

Balance sheet impact

Asset (capitalised and depreciated)

Operating expense (P&L only)

Alignment of interests

Separated — supplier’s interest ends at delivery

Aligned — WEMO invested in your performance
Can I start with a pilot before committing to a full subscription?
Yes. WEMO’s standard implementation trajectory begins with a pilot phase on 2 to 4 pressing lines over a period of 3 months. The pilot is specifically designed to produce results on the customer’s own production data before any decision on full rollout is made. The pilot is conducted under the same QaaS model: WEMO installs and maintains the hardware, and the customer pays the applicable service fee for the pilot scope. After the pilot phase, the subscription can be extended to additional pressing lines on the basis of the demonstrated results. No commitment to full rollout is required to start a pilot.
How long does implementation take from first discussion to a live system?
The full implementation follows a five-phase trajectory: (1) pilot phase on 2-4 pressing lines, 3 months; (2) data integration, Innius platform connection and MES configuration; (3) operator training on the dashboard and data interpretation; (4) full rollout to all pressing lines; (5) service phase, SLA active. The timeline from first discussion to live pilot is influenced by the complexity of the PLC and MES integration and the availability of the installation window on the customer’s production schedule. WEMO provides a project timeline with fixed milestones as part of the QaaS proposal.
Is the Laboratory Kempink Tester available as QaaS?
The Laboratory Kempink Tester is sold as a capital asset and is not part of the QaaS model. Only the three Inline products — the Inline Kempink Tester, the Inline Kempink Tester Ctrl, and the Inline Packing & Coding System — are available under QaaS subscriptions. The distinction matters for budget planning: the Lab Tester requires a one-time capital investment, while the Inline products are structured as a predictable operating expense.
Can I combine multiple WEMO Inline products in one QaaS subscription?
Yes. Multiple Inline products can be combined under a single QaaS subscription, covering the complete quality workflow under one monthly fee. A typical combined subscription might include the Inline Kempink Tester Ctrl for real-time PDI measurement and the Inline Packing & Coding System for automated retention sampling. Contact WEMO to discuss which combination best fits your production environment and quality management requirements.