Key Technology, PPM launch nut processing line

USA – Key Technology (Key) and PPM Technologies (PPM), both part of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, have launched a fully integrated nut processing line.

This turnkey system processes nuts from post-shelling to packaging, incorporating grading, sorting, oil roasting, seasoning, and more.

According to the companies, this new line offers exceptional versatility and is suitable for almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, pecans, hazelnuts, cashews, and all other types of tree nuts.

It can accommodate various capacities, catering to both large industrial producers and smaller operations transitioning from batch processing to continuous processing.

The modular design allows processors to start with essential technologies and expand the system as their business grows.

The line begins with Key’s specialized grading conveyors, which can be customized in terms of widths, lengths, screens, strokes, and speeds tailored to each application.

Options include dimpled screen holes for gentle handling, ball deck designs, and programmable pulse stroke technology to prevent blinding.

Next, depending on processor requirements, an infeed conveyor optimizes product spread for inspection by either a Veryx or Compass optical sorter.

Key customizes each sorting system with the best sensors and ejectors to detect and remove foreign materials, shell fragments, and product defects specific to each nut variety.

After sorting, the nuts are transferred to PPM’s CookWright continuous oil roasting system, which features precise temperature control and innovative oil filtration to ensure consistent roasting quality.

A specialized de-oiling conveyor with chain belts drains excess oil while maintaining product integrity, followed by the Polar Blast cooling system that prepares the nuts for seasoning.

PPM’s FlavorWright seasoning system applies customized liquids and/or dry seasoning combinations, managing everything from simple salt applications to complex multi-stage treatments with specialty oils, slurries, and powders.

The Libra Mass Flow loss-in-weight conveyor continuously monitors product flow and automatically adjusts seasoning rates for maximum precision.

The final stage includes PPM’s packaging distribution system, which features specialized conveyors designed to maintain product and coating quality.

Additionally, Key’s Zephyr horizontal-motion conveyors are popular in the packaging area for their gentle product handling, which protects nut integrity and seasoning coverage.

For processors seeking comprehensive plant solutions, the Duravant family offers additional packaging equipment, including form-fill-seal technology, end-of-line automation, and palletizing machinery.

This fully automated line reduces manual labour through centralized controls, allowing a single operator to manage multiple technologies.

Recipe-driven programming ensures reliable performance with minimal training, while proprietary information management software from Key and PPM collects process data for quality control and operational insights.

All equipment prioritizes optimal food safety, featuring stainless-steel construction, an open design, and tool-less disassembly for thorough cleaning.

The companies emphasize that by maintaining gentle handling throughout the line, the system minimizes the production of nut meal, contributing to cleaner operations and more efficient sanitation.

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