Marlen (former Afoheat, Belgium) — bar marking, heating and cooking solutions for food processing
Marlen, which today includes the former Afoheat operations from Veurne, Belgium, is a specialist in industrial bar marking, heating and cooking technology for food processing applications. While Marlen is known globally for a broad portfolio, Barsso focuses specifically on the former Afoheat product range, consisting of bar markers, heaters and cooking machines that are widely used in further processing and convenience food lines.
These machines are designed to deliver controlled surface marking, uniform heating and reliable cooking performance, especially for products where appearance, texture and repeatability are key quality drivers.
Who is Marlen / Afoheat?
Afoheat was a Belgian manufacturer based in Veurne, known for its expertise in thermal processing and surface treatment equipment for the food industry. After becoming part of Marlen, this technology was further developed and integrated into Marlen’s global offering, while maintaining its strong focus on robust design, precise thermal control and industrial reliability.
Many Afoheat machines remain in operation worldwide, particularly in meat, poultry and convenience food production, where consistent marking and cooking quality are essential.
What does Marlen (Afoheat technology) do?
The Afoheat technology within Marlen focuses on controlled thermal processing, supporting production steps such as:
- surface bar marking
- contact heating
- continuous cooking
- controlled heat transfer for product finishing
These machines are typically installed after forming or coating steps, and before cooling, freezing or packaging.
Marlen / Afoheat machines we follow
Barsso follows and supports the following core machine categories from the former Afoheat range:
1) Bar Markers
Bar markers are designed to apply distinct grill or branding marks to food products through controlled contact heating.
Key characteristics
- heated marking bars with precise temperature control
- adjustable contact pressure and dwell time
- uniform and repeatable marking results
- hygienic, industrial design
Applications
- burgers and patties
- formed meat and poultry products
- plant-based alternatives
- convenience foods requiring grill appearance
Bar markers enhance visual appeal and perceived product value without full grilling or frying.
2) Heaters (Contact Heating Systems)
Afoheat contact heaters are used for controlled surface and core heating of food products.
Core features
- direct contact heat transfer
- even temperature distribution
- adjustable belt speed and heating intensity
- integration into continuous processing lines
Applications
- pre-heating before cooking or frying
- partial cooking steps
- stabilisation of product shape and structure
These systems allow processors to apply precise thermal energy without over-processing.
3) Cooking Machines
The cooking machines from the Afoheat range are designed for continuous thermal processing in further processing lines.
Key capabilities
- consistent cooking temperature control
- uniform heat application across the product
- reliable throughput for industrial production
- integration with forming, coating and cooling systems
Applications
- cooked meat and poultry products
- convenience foods
- ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook items
These machines are valued for their repeatability, robustness and long operational life.
How Afoheat / Marlen thermal technology works
Afoheat-based machines operate on the principle of controlled contact heat transfer:
- heat is applied via heated surfaces or elements
- dwell time is managed by belt speed
- temperature zones are precisely controlled
- consistent heat transfer ensures uniform results
This approach delivers stable product quality, controlled browning and reliable cooking performance.
What Marlen (Afoheat technology) is specialised in
Within the Marlen group, the former Afoheat technology is specialised in:
- bar marking and surface branding
- contact heating for controlled thermal treatment
- continuous cooking for further processed foods
- integration into high-capacity production lines
These solutions are ideal for processors producing meat, poultry, plant-based and convenience food products where appearance, texture and consistency are critical.
Why Barsso supports Marlen / Afoheat machines
At Barsso, we actively work with Afoheat-based Marlen machines because:
- many units are still operational in production plants
- customers require service, parts and technical support
- these machines integrate well into modern further processing lines
- there is continued demand on the used equipment market
Customers can always contact Barsso for technical advice, service questions or operational support related to these machines.
Barsso support — buying & selling Marlen / Afoheat equipment
We support both sides of the market for Marlen (former Afoheat) machines:
- Buying:
We help customers source bar markers, heaters or cooking machines that match their product and capacity requirements. - Selling:
We are also interested in purchasing Afoheat / Marlen equipment when machines become available due to line upgrades or decommissioning.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell these machines, Barsso provides expert evaluation and support.
