WECO unveils advanced optical sorter for blueberry industry
WECO, a subsidiary of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Solutions group, has unveiled the 360Tek optical sorter for blueberries. This innovative system combines high-capacity processing with precise defect detection in a compact design. Addressing rising consumer demands for flawless produce, the 360Tek is set to improve quality control in the blueberry industry, as well as enhancing efficiency and reducing labour requirements for producers.
The 360Tek boasts impressive specifications. With the ability to process up to 3,600 kg of berries per hour, it offers high-capacity sorting in a compact design. The system’s primary function is to separate product with fine defects, extraneous vegetable matter (EVM), and oversized berries.
One of the most notable features of the 360Tek is its unique roller design. This innovative approach allows for a 360-degree view of each berry, facilitating comprehensive inspection. The system employs digital colour cameras that capture up to 16 images of each berry as it rotates. These images are then analysed using advanced machine-learning algorithms that assess colour, size, and shape to make sophisticated sorting decisions.
Customisable sorting streams
The 360Tek offers flexibility in its sorting capabilities, with three customisable output streams. The primary stream is designated for acceptable berries that meet quality standards and are ready for packaging. A second stream collects berries with defects and EVM, while a third stream can be used to separate jumbo-sized berries. Notably, the system allows for customisation of the second and third streams, enabling packers to sort berries based on specific types of defects or EVM if required.
Integration with existing systems
WECO has designed the 360Tek to be a seamless addition to their Sortivator fresh-pack lines. These lines can be tailored to individual customer needs, incorporating various modules for debris elimination, soft fruit removal, and colour and size sorting. The 360Tek can be installed at the end of both new and existing Sortivator lines, offering an upgrade path for current users.
Eric Horner, Vice President of WECO emphasised the system’s efficiency: “With its unique roller design, the 360Tek is half the size of similar fine defect sorters on the market while achieving twice the throughput, maintaining consistently high performance and offering a superior ROI. It’s a gamechanger for the blueberry industry.”
The introduction of the 360Tek is likely to have significant implications for the blueberry processing industry. By offering enhanced sorting capabilities in a compact, efficient package, WECO is addressing the dual challenges of increasing quality demands and the need for operational efficiency.
The 360Tek, along with other Sortivator equipment modules and WECO’s portfolio of sorting and moisture monitoring solutions, is available for both purchase and lease. This flexibility in acquisition options could facilitate adoption across various scales of operation within the industry.
- For more information, visit: www.wecotek.com
