Minneapolis-based Bühler presented InGaAs cameras, which are x-ray detection systems effective for separating foreign materials from frozen fruits and vegetables of the same color. Based on semiconductor sensors made from indium gallium arsenide alloy and operating in the short wave infrared range (SWIR), InGaAs cameras can detect even the subtlest of color differences that cannot be seen in the visible spectrum.

Bühler pioneered the use of this technology for use in the packing line, as a final check, to ensure that difficult-to-detect packaging materials such as light-colored wood in potatoes, cardboard in carrots and colored plastic in vegetable mixes, were quickly identified and accurately removed from the product stream.

The new InGaAs cameras are now available for Bühler’s SORTEX E product line.