NEW TECHNOLOGIES
BENEFIT NUT PROCESSORS BY: Kathy Coatney | Editor
Almonds being processed. All photos courtesy of Kathy Coatney.
N
ew technology is expensive, but many times it is worth the investment because of the savings in time, efficiency and improved product.
Electrical Systems Electrical systems have been greatly improved in recent years by the use of PLC's (Programmable Logic Controllers). PLC’s allow huller/sheller operators to initiate operation of all equipment with a single control. Additionally, future equipment can be added by simply changing the PLC program. Changing the program easily allows sequencing of equipment start-up and shut down.
Precleaning Precleaning of field harvested almonds has been improved with the advent of receiving pit vibrating feeder/ scalpers. This equipment allows the operator to discharge the almonds directly onto the feeder/scalper without clogging stationary pit grates. The feeder/scalper also removes sticks and other large foreign material, which in turn, protects the downstream 54
West Coast Nut
June 2018
ROBOTIC PICK AND SORT SYSTEM • Automatically scans almonds, identifies chips, defects, insect damage,and foreign material, and removes these at high speed without human assistance. • User defined pick criteria/parameters. • Easy set-up and operation. • Reduces labor costs. • Safer than manual picking; eliminates workmen’s compensation claims. For more information, contact: Bratney Companies: 916-364-8686 Eric Pflueger: 916-417-2261
CONTACT US TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION 950 Riverside Parkway, Suite 60 West Sacramento, CA 95605 800-247-6755 I www.bratney.com