The gas shortage in Victoria has caused a major disruption to domestic and industry consumers. It has been reported that 100,000 workers have been stood down and thousands of businesses have had to close their doors. Certain areas of the food-manufacturing sector have also been severely affected, however, adversity has led to some clever innovations.
Redlich/Hojnick Pty.Ltd. a manufacturer of gourmet sausages, quality hams (particularly for Christmas) and smallgoods suspended production of about 10 ton/week and were forced to layoff 12 staff on Friday 25th September. They supply various supermarket outlets in Victoria and interstate. While all their equipment is driven by electrical power, steam generated by a gas powered boiler is central to the cooking process of nearly all their products.
The owners Michael and Gary Redlich were forced to find an alternative supply of steam. They found it in the form of a 12 ton 1914 Buffalo Springfield steamroller that was literally rolled into position next to their factory in suburban Moorabbin. The wood fired boiler was plumbed into an existing steam line and production resumed by Thursday Ist October. The old steamroller may not be moving but it certainly has enabled stock to roll off the production line again.
"I don't care how old the technology is as long as its safe and it works, we'll use it" said co owner Gary Redlich.
The steamroller idea came from an industry colleague who lives close to, and passed daily, the rollers of the Melbourne Steam Traction Engine Club. This particular roller was last used by an inner city council about 30 years ago but has been maintained in working condition. The 44 tube twin high pressure locomotive type boiler has recently been refurbished and passed strict pressure system regulations.