Key Technology and PPM Technologies automated nut processing line

Key Technology and PPM Technologies, both members of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, have introduced a fully integrated nut processing line that brings together both companies’ technologies. The customisable line can process nuts from post-shelling to packaging, including grading, sorting, oil roasting, seasoning and more. 

Appropriate for almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, pecans, hazelnuts, cashews and all other tree nuts, the modular line is suitable for both large industrial producers and small operations moving from batch to continuous processing. 

The line begins with Key’s specialised grading conveyors, customised with specific widths, lengths, screens, strokes and speeds for each application. Options include dimpled screen holes for gentle handling, ball deck designs and programmable pulse stroke technology to prevent blinding.

Next, an infeed conveyor has been designed to create optimal product spread for inspection by either a VERYX or COMPASS optical sorter, depending on the user’s requirements. Key tailors each sorting system with a combination of sensors and ejectors to detect and remove foreign material, shell fragments and product defects specific to each nut variety.

Following sorting, nuts transfer to PPM’s CookWright continuous oil roasting system, combining temperature control with oil filtration for consistent roasting quality. A specialised de-oiling conveyor with chain belts drains excess oil while preserving product integrity before the Polar Blast cooling system prepares nuts for seasoning.

PPM’s FlavorWright seasoning system applies customised combinations of liquids and/or dry seasoning, handling everything from simple salt applications to complex multi-stage treatments with specialty oils, slurries and powders. The Libra Mass Flow loss-in-weight conveyor continuously monitors product flow and automatically adjusts seasoning rates for precision.

The final stage incorporates PPM’s packaging distribution system, featuring specialised conveyors designed to maintain product and coating quality. Key’s Zephyr horizontal-motion conveyors can also be used in the packaging area, providing gentle product handling that is designed to protect nut integrity and seasoning coverage. For users wanting complete plant solutions, the Duravant family has additional packaging equipment such as form-fill-seal technology, end-of-line automation and palletising machinery.

The fully automated nut processing line is designed to reduce manual labour. All equipment is engineered for food safety, with stainless steel construction, open designs and tool-less disassembly for thorough cleaning. By emphasising gentle handling throughout the line, the system can also minimise the creation of nut meal, contributing to cleaner operations and more efficient sanitation.