At the Eagleview Orchard in Kirup, Western Australia, the gas separation expert, Oxair is using nitrogen generation technology in controlled atmosphere coolrooms to help preserve apple and pear harvests.
Using a fully natural solution, the Oxair nitrogen generator reduces the oxygen content of the air in the coolroom, slowing down the respiration of the fruit so optimal freshness is retained. The Eagleview machine is capable of 20M^3/hr at 99% nitrogen, extracted from the air using membrane technology. Higher flow rates are available and machines are designed to customers’ individual requirements.
By using membrane technology, inert gas can be produced at low pressure, removing the safety hazards associated with using high pressure gas cylinders and bulk cryogenic liquefied gas. By accessing nitrogen in this way, running costs are also kept low, with the potential for savings of up to 50% compared with traditional supply methods, the company said.
Maintaining stringent atmospheric control is vital for pome fruits such as apples and pears to purge out ethylene, reduce respiration and fungal spore development. This leads to the best possible out turn of the harvest and extends the shelf life of the fruit. Having previously relied on a hired Oxair nitrogen generator for several years, staff at Eagleview knew that investing in a permanent unit was the best way forward for the business.
Dianne Fogliani of Eagleview noted the importance of the generator to its operations.
“The previous Oxair-built one we had on rental has been reliable for many years, so it made sense for us to invest in a permanent solution,” Fogliani said. “We’ve been producing fruit at Eagleview for forty years now and we always aim to produce the best quality we possibly can. Oxair’s technology is helping us to maintain the ultimate in freshness and quality.”
The area of controlled atmosphere storage space currently being supplied with nitrogen is approximately 700 cubic metres. The unit purchased by Eagleview Orchard is capable of running a much larger operation very efficiently, leaving the orchard ample scope to expand operations without the need for additional generators.
Oxair engineer David Cheeseman added: “Supplying nitrogen using membrane technology is a highly practical and cost-effective solution for a wide range of sectors and is ideal for keeping fruit and vegetable harvests fresh. It’s been a delight to work with the folks at Eagleview Orchard and supply them with this fuss-free and reliable technology.
