Key Technology and PPM Technologies introduce fully-integrated nut processing line
Key Technology (Key) and PPM Technologies (PPM) are presenting a new fully integrated nut processing line.
The complete system integrates from Key and PPM to process nuts from post-shelling to packaging, including sorting, grading, oil roasting, seasoning, and more. The line helps processors minimise manual labour and achieve consistent product quality, and it is highly customisable to fit each application, according to the makers.
“The depth of nut processing knowledge between Key and PPM is unmatched,” said Jack Lee, Duravant Group president – food sorting and handling group. “Our teams bring decades of expertise to every project, designing systems tailored to the unique characteristics of each processor’s products and their production requirements. The result is a seamlessly integrated line with all equipment working in perfect harmony, backed by single-source responsibility from purchase through startup and aftermarket support.”
Offering versatility, the new line is ideal for almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, pecans, hazelnuts, cashews and all other tree nuts. It can accommodate varying capacities for both large industrial producers and small operations moving from batch to continuous processing. Its modular design allows processors to start with essential technologies and expand as their business grows.
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 creates the optimal product spread for inspection by either a Veryx or Compass optical sorter, depending on processor requirements. Key tailors each sorting system with the best 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 precise temperature control with innovative 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 maximum 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 are also a popular choice in the packaging area, providing gentle product handling that protects nut integrity and seasoning coverage.
For processors wanting complete plant solutions, the Duravant family offers additional packaging equipment such as form-fill-seal technology, end-of-line automation and palletising machinery.
This fully automated line reduces manual labor through centralised controls enabling single-operator management across multiple technologies.
Recipe-driven programming ensures reliable performance with minimal training, while proprietary information management software from Key and PPM gathers process data for quality control and operational insights.
All equipment is engineered for optimal food safety including stainless-steel construction, open designs and tool-less disassembly for thorough cleaning. By emphasizing gentle handling throughout the line, the system also minimises the creation of nut meal, which contributes to cleaner operations and more efficient sanitation.
Processors can learn more about this new integrated nut line and Key’s and PPM’s other world-class equipment at INC World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress, being held May 8 to 10, 2025 in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
