Working with small volumes of curd
Using coagulation basins allows working sequentially on small batches, from ferments addition to moulding.
Coagulation basins with rounded shapes to respect the curd
By working with small volumes of curd at a time, the cheesemaker can easily adapt its production according to the seasonality of its yield and the volumes to produce.
The rounded shape of the basin ensures uniform results on fragile curds and maximizes yield.
Basin work steps
The addition of acidification and aging cultures can be done upstream in a buffer tank or in the basin when coagulant is added.
Milk dosage and curdling
The mould and the cheese's weight define the basines' volume. The coagulant is added at this time. The basin should be left to rest for the time of coagulation.
Cutting and stirring
Curd is cut with curd-cutters adapted to the basin shape to limit fines. The size of the cut depends on the cheese. Stirring may be used to obtain the curd targeted moisture.
Moulding
To respect the fragile curds, the curds are transferred into moulds by ladling or by chute with a tipping station.
Curd cutting
Two solutions are possible depending on the cheese and the curd's fragility.
Scoop & ladle
For lactic-type soft cheeses with fragile and high-moisture curd, cutting is done with a ladle at the moulding time.
Stainless steel wire curd cutter
For rennet-type soft cheeses with more drained curd, a wire cut is made before moulding. The spacing of the wires depends on the cheese.
Shape and Function
The shape of the basin determines which tools to use for cutting and moulding.
Half-cylindrical
Basin on wheels that allows moulding with Fromagex tipping station.
Truncated
For small volume, with ladle moulding or by manual pouring.
Hemispherical
Traditional for lactic curd, requiring a ladle moulding.
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