A 1-ton-per-hour production line for pet pillow treats, constructed by Shandong Arrow Machinery, has successfully commenced operations at the facility of a major, well-known European pet food manufacturer. The project aims to expand local production capacity for high-end, extruded, center-filled pet foods and functional pet treats—a strategic move supporting import substitution. The entire production line is compactly arranged within a 1,000-square-meter workshop, enabling efficient, continuous production while fully meeting modern veterinary and pet nutritional standards.

The production of semi-moist or oil-filled pet pillow treats is a technically demanding process. Manufacturers often encounter challenges such as inconsistent kibble density, leakage of the center filling during heat treatment, and uneven application of flavor-enhancing oils. To overcome these hurdles, the engineering team at Shandong Arrow developed a customized production line tailored to the client's specific facility space, significantly optimizing both equipment layout and operational workflow.
The system features a high degree of automation, seamlessly integrating precision twin-screw extrusion, gentle drying, and refined coating modules. By maximizing the utility of the 1,000-square-meter space, the layout streamlines the flow of raw materials and finished products, effectively preventing cross-contamination and substantially reducing labor costs.
The production line encompasses a comprehensive, deep-processing workflow, consisting of the following core stages:
(1) Fine Grinding & Automated Batching: Fine grinding of grain and protein ingredients, followed by high-precision automated batching;
(2) Pre-Mixing & Steam Conditioning: Efficient pre-mixing of raw materials and uniform steam conditioning;
(3) Twin-Screw Extrusion & Center-Filling: Twin-screw extrusion combined with a synchronous center-filling system (for precise injection of the core material);
(4) Multi-Layer Convective Hot-Air Drying: Multi-layer convective hot-air drying to lock in nutrients while achieving precise moisture removal;
(5) Vacuum Coating: Vacuum coating with liquid oils and powdered flavor enhancers;
(6) Cooling & Automated Packaging: Counter-flow cooling of the kibble, followed by automated, precision-weighed packaging.
The main twin-screw extruder features a specially designed screw configuration, ensuring uniform plasticization of raw materials and maintaining constant pressure at the die head. A high-precision core-filling system enables the continuous and stable injection of filling material into the center of the extruded product. A cutting mechanism then shapes the extrudate into filled pillows or small rolls, ensuring clean, sealed edges without leakage. The multi-layer dryer offers precise temperature control across multiple zones, ensuring even moisture evaporation and guaranteeing a long shelf life for the finished products.
The successful delivery of this project in Europe demonstrates Shandong Arrow's mature technical delivery capabilities within the European market:
(1) Customization for Specific Facilities: We provide bespoke 3D layout designs for 1,000-square-meter production facilities, including comprehensive planning for steam piping, electrical systems, and dust-extraction ventilation networks.
(2) Durable, Long-Lasting Core Components: Our equipment utilizes highly wear-resistant, specialized alloy screws and barrels, with all critical electrical components sourced from globally renowned brands.
(3) Comprehensive Technical Support: We dispatch senior engineers to the client's site to oversee installation and commissioning, optimize recipes and processes based on local raw materials, and provide hands-on training for operators.
The successful commissioning of this project proves that a scientifically configured production line can significantly shorten the return-on-investment (ROI) period, helping clients gain a competitive edge in the high-end pet food market. Whether you are building a new, modern pet food plant or upgrading an existing line to produce high-value filled pet food products, the engineering team at Shandong Arrow can provide a tailored solution for you.
To receive a customized 3D workshop layout, energy consumption analysis, and a personalized quotation, please provide the following information:
(1) Target product types and recipe/process requirements (e.g., standard extruded kibble, filled pet food, aquatic feed, wet pet food, or dental treats);
(2) Desired production capacity (kg/h);
(3) Dimensions and internal layout of your production facility.
Contact the Shandong Arrow engineering team today for a professional project assessment and a comprehensive production line plan.
Technical Support: Yandex