Working Principle of Fish Slaughtering and Descaling Machine
Compared with traditional slow fish processing methods, high-efficiency fish slaughtering and descaling machines have become increasingly popular in the market. There are two common types on the market: vertical drum fish slaughtering and descaling machines, and horizontal fish slaughtering and descaling machines. A fish can usually be processed in about 7 seconds.

So how does a fish slaughtering and descaling machine work? Below, the working principle of a vertical drum fish slaughtering and descaling machine is explained as an example.
Overview of the Overall Working Method
The fish slaughtering and descaling machine usually adopts a vertical descaling and cutting structure.
During the whole process, the fish is automatically processed from feeding to discharge, enabling continuous and standardized operation.
Compared with traditional horizontal cutting equipment, the vertical design requires less floor space, runs more stably, and is easier to operate.

Detailed Working Principle of the Fish Slaughtering and Descaling Machine
Vertical Fish Feeding and Positioning
- The fish enters the machine with the head facing downward. This feeding method uses gravity and the conveying system to keep the fish stable, ensuring accurate positioning for descaling and cutting.
Bidirectional Descaling
- After entering the machine, the fish first passes through the bidirectional descaling device. The scales are removed mechanically, effectively eliminating stubborn scales while keeping the fish skin intact and smooth.
Chain-Driven Continuous Conveying
- After descaling, the fish is conveyed downward by a chain transmission system. The chain conveyor runs smoothly and ensures accurate positioning, preventing misalignment or jamming during cutting.
Precise Back or Belly Cutting
At the cutting station, different processing methods can be selected according to customer needs:
- Back cutting: the fish back faces the blade
- Belly cutting: the fish belly faces the blade
The blade angle and cutting depth are precisely designed to avoid damaging internal organs and to ensure a clean, even cut.
Automatic Fish Discharge
- After cutting, the fish continues along the conveying system and is discharged from the outlet, completing the slaughtering, descaling, and cutting process.

Technical Advantages from the Working Principle
- High Processing Efficiency: The entire process is fully automatic. One fish can be processed in about 7 seconds, greatly improving efficiency.
- Stable Descaling Performance: Mechanical descaling ensures consistent results and avoids incomplete manual scale removal.
- High Cutting Quality: Vertical positioning and precise blade design produce clean, neat cuts without damaging internal organs.
- Compact and Stable Structure: The vertical structure simplifies mechanical transmission, ensuring more stable operation and a lower failure rate.

Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | 1.5 kW |
| Processing Time per Fish | About 7 seconds |
| Machine Size (L×W×H) | 770 × 660 × 900 mm |
| Power Supply | 220 V / 380 V |
| Fish Weight Range | 1–4 kg per fish |
| Machine Weight | 140 kg |
| Function | Descaling & Back Cutting |


In Cooperation with Taizy
Taizy has over 20 years of experience in food processing equipment manufacturing, with mature design and production expertise in fish slaughtering and descaling machines. Taizy’s machines combine descaling and back cutting in one unit, featuring a compact structure and stable operation.
Made of 304 stainless steel and equipped with high-quality motors, the machines are durable, safe, and easy to maintain. We offer customized solutions based on customer needs, including voltage and processing methods, along with comprehensive pre-sales consultation and after-sales support to help clients efficiently improve fish processing efficiency and achieve stable, long-term production.