WECO introduced the Multiscan MXV-Bulk X-ray inspection system for in-shell nut applications. The system analyses density differences inside each nut to identify hidden quality defects, insufficient kernel fill and dense foreign material (FM). By removing these from the product stream, the company says, the MXV-Bulk helps processors achieve higher product grades, increase per-pound value and reduce the need for manual inspection.

Looking inside the shell

“Nut processors have traditionally relied on optical inspection methods that cannot tell them what is happening inside the shell. While X-ray is broadly used in food processing, this is the first system of its kind to evaluate the internal quality of in-shell nuts in North America,” said Nick Lightfoot, Vice President at WECO. “With the MXV-Bulk, we’ve seen customers nearly eliminate the need for end-of-line manual inspection while raising their average product grade several points. When processors are selling on kernel yield, that combination can produce a meaningful improvement to the bottom line.”

Intended for pecans, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts and other nuts, the system identifies and rejects defects that show no obvious external signs, including empty shells, insect damage and internal mould. It also removes FM such as stones, glass, ceramics and embedded metal.

Detection and ejection

Nuts enter on a belt designed to stabilise and distribute product evenly for consistent scanning. The MXV-Bulk captures and analyses images of each object as it passes through the inspection zone. When it identifies out-of-tolerance product or FM, it signals the air valves to eject the unwanted material.

The system is intended to complement optical sorting, aspiration and other separation methods on the line. Optical sorters identify external characteristics such as colour, size, shape and surface condition, while aspiration separates material mainly on weight and aerodynamic properties. X-ray inspection adds information about internal density, helping processors build a more complete quality-control strategy.

Straightforward operation

The company says the MXV-Bulk does not require a highly specialised operator to maintain consistent results. Operators set the density threshold directly on the touchscreen, defining the tolerance that determines how fully a nut must be filled to be accepted. The system can also evaluate fill within specific areas of each nut, so inspection can be configured for differences among varieties and quality targets.

Development and availability

The MXV-Bulk was developed through collaboration between WECO and Multiscan Technologies, both Duravant operating companies, combining Multiscan’s X-ray technology with WECO’s nut-processing expertise. WECO leads Multiscan’s commercial and support activities in the Americas, while Multiscan serves as WECO’s lead in the EMIA region and beyond.

The system is available for sale worldwide and for lease in the United States, Mexico and Canada. WECO supports processors with installation and startup services, preventive maintenance, technology upgrades and 24/7 emergency assistance to help sustain inspection performance and production uptime throughout the life of the equipment.

For more information, visit: www.wecotek.com
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