Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-07-30 Origin: Site
In the production of traditional Chinese liquors, the Qu-making process plays a critical role. Qu is a fermentation starter—typically pressed into dense bricks—which helps convert starches into alcohol. Traditionally, this pressing process is done manually, relying on skilled labor and years of experience.
This case study showcases how a leading distillery became the first in the industry to automate Qu pressing using servo-driven FDRA Electric Cylinders, transforming a centuries-old process into a high-precision, scalable operation.
The client is a respected manufacturer of Chinese distilled spirits with a long legacy of craftsmanship. At the core of their fermentation process lies Qu, which must be carefully prepared to ensure consistent quality.
Previously, Qu bricks were made by hand—pressed by workers using traditional tools and body weight. The method was slow, physically demanding, and lacked process uniformity.
To improve efficiency and address labor shortages, the client sought a clean, programmable, and food-safe automation solution.
| Problem Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Labor Dependency | Manual pressing required 4–5 skilled operators per shift |
| Quality Variance | Inconsistent compression led to uneven fermentation results |
| Scalability | Unable to expand production without proportional labor increase |
| Food Safety Standards | Open processing exposed product to contamination risks |
| Automation Fit | Required compact, programmable actuators for custom Qu-pressing machines |
FDRA partnered with the client’s engineering team to design a custom mechanical pressing system driven by our Electric Cylinder Series.
The result: a fully programmable unit capable of applying high, consistent force with real-time motion control—mimicking the traditional hand-pressing technique while ensuring industrial-level consistency.
High Thrust Capacity: Up to 30kN vertical force
Repeatable Precision: ±0.02 mm stroke accuracy
Servo Control: Fully programmable for different Qu formulations
Clean Operation: Oil-free, easy to clean, food-safe design
Environmental Durability: Works reliably in humid, dusty fermentation rooms
The project followed a structured deployment: mechanical design, servo integration, PLC programming, and on-site calibration.
FDRA supplied both the actuator hardware and integration support to ensure seamless control performance and reliability.
| Feature | FDRA Electric Cylinder | Traditional Manual Pressing |
|---|---|---|
| Force Output | 3–30 kN | Human dependent |
| Repeatability | ±0.02 mm | Low |
| Control Method | Servo motor + PLC | Manual force application |
| Processing Speed | High (programmable cycles) | Slow (fatigue-limited) |
| Hygiene | Enclosed & cleanable | Open & labor-intensive |
| Labor Requirement | One supervisor | 4–5 skilled workers |
After deployment, the client reported significant performance improvements:
✅ Increased production capacity by 60%
✅ Over 70% reduction in labor costs
✅ Improved batch consistency and fermentation outcomes
✅ Enhanced hygiene compliance with food production standards
✅ First successful automation case in the industry for Qu pressing
“Automating the Qu-pressing process was once considered impossible without sacrificing tradition. FDRA’s electric cylinders proved it can be done—with better results. We’re now planning to scale this across all our production lines.”
— Head of Operations, Traditional Liquor Manufacturer
FDRA’s electric cylinders are not limited to modern industries. They also unlock innovation for heritage-rich sectors, allowing legacy processes to meet contemporary standards of efficiency, safety, and scalability.
Long service life & minimal maintenance
High-force output with fine motion control
Programmable integration with industrial PLCs
Food-safe construction and environmental adaptability
Engineering support for custom machine builds
Explore FDRA Electric Cylinders
This project stands as a pioneering example of how servo-electric actuators can modernize even the most traditional of manufacturing steps. By automating Qu-making, the client preserved their craft while embracing industrial-grade consistency and performance.
FDRA continues to serve diverse industries—from beverages and food to automotive and medical—helping manufacturers replace outdated motion systems with high-precision electric actuators.
