PPM, Key Introduce Fully Integrated Chip Processing Line
PPM Technologies and Key Technology, both Duravant operating companies, have introduced a fully integrated potato chip processing line, combining PPM’s frying, seasoning, and product handling systems with Key’s optical sorting technology into a unified processing solution. From slicing through packaging, the integrated line is intended to help processors improve product consistency, recover more usable product, reduce labor demands, and streamline support through single-source accountability.
Frying and Oil Management Systems
PPM’s frying systems form the foundation of the processing line. For kettle-style chip production, the company offers the BatchWright batch fryer, designed to control the frying curve to achieve target texture, color, and flavor characteristics. Conventional potato chip processors can utilize the CookWright continuous fryer, which features configurable heating, belt, and filtration systems tailored to processor requirements.
Both fryer systems include oil filtration technology intended to extend oil life and reduce operating costs, as well as clean-in-place functionality designed to minimize sanitation downtime.
Optical Sorting for Defect and Foreign Material Removal
Following frying, chips move through Key Technology’s COMPASS optical sorter, where defects and foreign material can be removed before packaging. The system combines multi-channel sensor data with multi-wavelength strobing technology to detect dark spots, green discoloration, white knots, and fryer debris.
According to the companies, the sorter is designed to reduce maintenance complexity compared to laser-based systems. Recipe-driven operation, simplified controls, and an open, sanitary design are intended to support consistent inspection performance while reducing training, cleaning, and maintenance demands.
Seasoning and Product Handling
After inspection, chips are transferred to PPM’s FlavorWright All-in-One seasoning system, which applies liquid and/or dry seasonings before weighing and packaging. The system is designed to support a range of seasoning applications, from salt-only products to formulations using specialty oils, slurries, and powders.
Quick-release components allow for rapid changeovers, while IP65-rated washdown capability supports sanitation during frequent flavor transitions.
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At the front of the line, PPM’s slice feeder uses a dual auger feed conveyor to meter whole potatoes into the slicer at a controlled rate intended to promote slice uniformity and frying consistency. The conveying system throughout the line includes horizontal-motion conveyors designed to minimize product breakage and seasoning loss, as well as vibratory conveyors that meter product to multi-head weighers.
The line can also incorporate recirculation conveyors that keep product moving if packaging equipment or scales go offline, helping processors reduce waste and maintain production uptime.
Data Collection and Line Monitoring
The integrated line can be configured to fit individual plant layouts and production requirements. Centralized and local controls provide operators with real-time visibility across the system.
Key’s Discovery software collects and analyzes data from the COMPASS sorter, allowing processors to monitor trends related to yield, reject rates, raw material variability, and upstream equipment performance.
PPM Technologies: www.ppmtech.com
Key Technology: www.key.net
