UNIQUE NEW DESIGN WITH ULTRA-LIGHT SPLIT SCREENS FOR FASTER CHANGEOVERS.

A potato is a natural product with its own character and inherent variability. Length, shape, firmness and starch content are variables that French fry manufacturers must continuously anticipate.

“A length grader is used to create a gradation in product streams after cutting,” explains Hans Vermeeren. “Here, crumbs and short pieces are separated from the main flow. These residual streams can then be used for potato specialties. In this way, the length grader ensures maximum quality and efficiency throughout the entire year.”

Due to the natural variability of potatoes and the changing demands of consumers, sorting specifications continuously evolve. For this reason, the length grader is equipped with interchangeable sorting decks. However, traditional decks are heavy and difficult to handle, often requiring two operators for replacement.

“That’s exactly where we saw an opportunity for improvement,” Vermeeren continues. “The Length Grader 2.0 is equipped with intelligent split screens. Instead of one large deck, we use two half decks. These are significantly lighter and can therefore be handled by a single operator.”

In addition, traditional decks are typically replaced from above, which can be inconvenient in terms of accessibility and ergonomics. FoodeQ therefore developed a split-screen sliding drawer system that allows decks to be replaced more easily and in a more ergonomic way.

Thanks to the compact size and reduced weight, a single operator can change a deck independently. Cleaning is also straightforward. “This means you save on manpower and can switch production lines faster when required. Remove the deck, insert a clean deck with a different perforation, and with the practical clamping system it is immediately secured in place.”

These ergonomic improvements ensure that FoodeQ continues to lead the field in vibratory technology. “Our first two-meter-wide length grader — also known as a short-piece sorter — dates back to 2010 and is still running flawlessly today. That once again proves the top quality we deliver. Since then, we have of course optimized many aspects, making the machines measurably more efficient and energy-efficient, especially in combination with our unique CentreQ system.”

FoodeQ designs and builds reliable length graders for removing undersized products from a product stream. “This can be anything from French fries to carrots. The vibratory grader can be used for both fresh and frozen products. Our traditional length grader was already a success story; with this new version we are ready to write the next chapter.”

Interested in seeing the length grader in combination with the CentreQ system in action?
Please contact: hans@foodeq.nl