Key Technology unveils defect removal and optical sorting systems aimed at cutting waste and boosting yield
Key Technology has introduced a range of new food processing equipment, headlined by the ADR X automatic defect removal system – a machine engineered to recover more usable product from wet potato strips through more precise defect detection and trimming than its predecessors.
ADR X targets yield recovery in wet potato processing
The ADR X addresses one of the more persistent challenges in potato strip processing: identifying and removing defects without discarding usable product. Building on Key’s established ADR platform, the system incorporates multi-channel sensing with advanced LED lighting and strobing technology to improve detection of difficult defects. A redesigned mechanical architecture removes all activity above the product stream, integrates clean-in-place capability, and positions critical components for straightforward access – reducing downtime associated with sanitation and routine maintenance. The system was shown publicly for the first time at Interpack 2026.
COMPASS sorter delivers multi-channel inspection without laser complexity
The COMPASS belt-fed optical sorter uses multi-wavelength strobing to generate up to eight channels of inspection data. Key positions the system as delivering detection performance comparable to laser-based sorters, but without the mechanical scanning components that typically increase configuration complexity and long-term operating costs. The horizontal belt design makes it particularly well-suited to wet, sticky or delicate products such as potato crisps and leafy greens, where gentle handling at high throughput is a processing requirement. Recipe-driven controls and an open sanitary design are intended to reduce operator training requirements and cleaning time.
Vibratory conveying and seasoning complete the portfolio update
Key’s Impulse vibratory conveyor is designed for precise product metering in mixing, ingredient feeding and scale feeding applications. Magnetic drives replace sliding or rotating parts to reduce mechanical wear, while IP65-rated enclosures and oil-free operation support food-safe performance in demanding production environments.
Sister company PPM Technologies has launched the third generation of its FlavorWright All-in-One seasoning system – a compact unit combining liquid and dry seasoning application in a single plug-and-play configuration. New features include enhanced drum magnets for high-capacity use, improved safety and wiring design, and a stainless-steel drum option suited to continuous production.
Multiscan’s MXV-PACK 4015 X-ray inspection system, also new, is designed for packaged goods in boxes, trays and bags. Using high-resolution UHD X-ray technology, it detects dense contaminants in packaging formats up to 400 mm wide and 150 mm high.
Simplifying operation without sacrificing performance
Robert van Dorst, Managing Director of Key EMEA/Asia, described the underlying design philosophy: “Our portfolio is built around decades of application expertise, equipment engineered for minimal operator intervention and a global service team that supports customers wherever they operate.”
All systems are available now through Key Technology’s global sales and service network.
- For more information, visit: key.net
