Mettler-Toledo Unveils X3 X-Ray Series for Bulk Foods Inspection
Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection Group has introduced its new X3 Series of bulk flow X-ray inspection systems for physical contamination detection, enhanced with waste reduction and simplified operational features.
Including the X13 and X53 models, the X3 Series for bulk inspection is designed using common parts of the X2 family. The new series meets the hygienic design, usability, and performance standards required by agriculture, confectionery, and food producers.
Designed for Bulk Food Applications
The X3 Series has been developed specifically for unpackaged, loose-flow, bulk products on conveyors. Both systems in the series can detect contaminants as small as 0.3–0.4 millimeters (mm), depending on application and contaminant material. Typical applications include dried, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, nuts, pulses, root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes, confectionery, and cereals.
Reject options include a 30-nozzle air blast for pinpoint removal of contaminants in smaller products, or a six-flap pusher reject for the removal of contamination in larger produce. With reject devices positioned above the product, they are less likely to become blocked or clogged with product debris, thereby maintaining performance and supporting hygienic handling. These targeted reject systems are intended to help manufacturers minimize product waste and protect profitability.
X3 Series features throughput rates of up to 5,000 kilogram (kg) per hour.
X13 X-ray Inspection System
Offering an affordably priced option, the X13 is Equipped with HiGain+ detector technology and ContamPlus™ software to deliver sharp imaging and reliable detection of physical contaminants such as metal, glass, calcified bone, and stone in a large variety of bulk flow applications, regardless of consistency or format.
X53 Dual-Energy X-ray Inspection System
As the X3 Series’ premium offering, the X53 is engineered for manufacturers who handle the most complex bulk products and require precise accuracy. Building on the performance of the X13, the X53 integrates HiGain+ Dual Energy (DE) detector technology and Advanced Material Discrimination (AMD) Pro software to deliver an additional layer of analytical intelligence. By processing two energy spectrums simultaneously, the X53 can differentiate between materials with similar densities such as bone and product, allowing it to detect challenging low-density contaminants that single-energy systems may miss.
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The X53 also introduces traceability and automation features, including product validation routines, self-checking performance verification, and a fully lockable inspection tunnel for secure operation. These capabilities make it suitable for high-throughput or high-risk environments, where sensitivity, reliability, and compliance are critical.
Hygienic, Operator-Friendly Design
Both X3 models feature front open conveyor access and tool-free removal of key components. Options such as belt scrapers, water-cleaning systems, and removable guide rails increase sanitation speed and effectiveness, while integrated cable management reduces clutter. Each system is available with a choice of ingress protection ratings up to IP69, providing flexibility to suit different hygiene standards and cleaning regimes.
Regulatory Compliance
The X3 Series also combines detection performance with digital transparency, featuring full connectivity to ProdX software to enable real-time monitoring, automated reporting, and long-term data storage, aligning with global regulatory priorities for traceability.
Mettler-Toledo: www.mt.com
