Key Expands Compass Sorter Capabilities
Key Technology has introduced new capabilities for its Compass belt-fed optical sorter, including advanced backlight technology, three-way sorting, and a larger-capacity model.
The enhancements are intended to expand the system's sorting capabilities for snacks, vegetables, and other food products.
Backlight Technology for Optical Inspection
Compass is now available with pulsed LED backlight technology using visible and near-infrared wavelengths. The technology transmits light through the belt rather than illuminating products solely from above.
According to Key, the backlight improves product segmentation and reduces the effects of shadows and belt staining that can interfere with the detection of defects and foreign material. The technology is intended for challenging optical inspection applications, including kettle chips.
Three-Way Sorting
An optional three-way sorting configuration adds a second ejection manifold, enabling Compass to separate incoming product into three independently configurable streams in a single pass.
Processors can configure the third stream to recover product for rework, separate different categories of defects, or produce multiple product grades. According to Key, making multiple sorting decisions in one pass can reduce the need for a second sorter or manual inspection station.
Larger Compass Model for High-Throughput Lines
Key has also expanded the Compass line with the B200 model, which features a 2-meter-wide sorting belt for higher-capacity production lines.
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The larger system is designed to enable processors with high-throughput operations to meet production requirements with a single sorter rather than multiple smaller systems.
All Compass sorters incorporate sensing technologies, recipe-driven operation, and an open, hygienic design intended to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. The systems also include Key Discovery, the company's analytics and reporting software for collecting and analyzing production data.
Key Technology: www.key.net
