Key Technology, a member of the Duravant family of operating companies, Walla Walla, Wash., introduced ADR EXOS, an automatic defect removal system for potato strips.

ADR EXOS is said to be the only vision system on the market designed specifically to cut out defects from potato strips and turning them into “good” product. Featuring a new cutter-wheel design and intelligent software, the next-generation ADR EXOS better manages strip quality and length while improving product recovery to maximize process profitability.  

EXOS technology aligns, singulates, inspects and trims both peeled and peel-on wet potato strips of various cut sizes. The new cutter-wheel features even closer spacing between the air-actuated knives to more accurately place cuts closer to defects.

Additional benefits include a new knife retention system that eliminates the chance of unintended knife deployments, while new intelligent software supports enhanced cut strategies, enabling more options for placing cut locations relative to each defect, including making multiple cuts on a single strip. Finally, a comprehensive smart diagnostics system continuously monitors knife cutting operations to detect any possible issues and ensure system performance remains consistent over time.

ADR EXOS produce at rates up to 17,000 pounds per hour for shoestring cuts, and proportionally higher capacity rates for larger product cuts.

For inspection accuracy, ADR EXOS relies on LED lights and high-resolution vision/infrared cameras to identify green and brown defects such as bruises and rot. The patented ADR belt conveyor and Iso-Flo high-speed vibratory infeed conveyor accurately convey each potato strip for optimal inspection and trimming. To effectively handle a variety of strip types from shoestring to steak cut, ADR EXOS offers a “bed shift” capability, so lane widths can be easily adjusted. The CleanBelt clean-in-place system continuously removes starch from the ADR belt to prevent buildup.

Key Technology, Inc.
509-529-2161
www.key.net