"Potatoes are being graded above the agreed-upon limit. This machine allows you to reach that limit more precisely," says Michel Remijn. He is the founder and director of the Dutch company RMA Techniek. Here, Michel refers to the major difference between using two and three-dimensional (2 and 3D) camera sorting technology. "The currently common 2D images measure potatoes' average circumference and length. Our machine creates a 3D model of each potato, making it highly suited to grading specific sizes."
Slice cutter with internal defects camera
Using 3D technology for precise sizing
In 3D technology, a camera precisely determines a potato's length and shape. That is especially useful for sectors like French fries, where potato length is vital. That 3D imaging sets it apart from traditional 2D methods, which only measure average length and girth.
"Mechanical graders sort out five to 20% of potatoes as, incorrectly, too small, while 15% of those are actually often suited for French fries," Michel explains. The seed potato sector also benefits; 3D cameras can sort up to 20% more usable potatoes from oversized ones, yielding immediate returns.
Yield and broad use
Its affordability is a key advantage of this 3D camera. "These machines are simple, robust, and cost about half as much as optical graders. So, you can sometimes recoup your investment within a year."
Besides French fries and seed potatoes, this technology is also perfect for the ware potato market. This 3D grader can also select the correct sizes for potatoes that require further processing or specific packaging like 1kg bags. That improves efficiency and minimizes waste.
Innovative quality control
In addition to sorting innovation, RMA Techniek is making strides in fully automated potato quality determination. The company recently developed a machine that slices and evaluates samples of 10-25 kilogram potatoes for internal defects within minutes. This technology offers faster, more accurate analyses, taking quality control to a new level.
Another advancement is the hyperspectral camera, which measures potatoes' dry matter distribution. That is crucial for processors, where uniform dry matter distribution is essential. Traditional methods, such as back-drying tests, are time-consuming and less accurate. Hyperspectral analysis not only measures dry matter within minutes but in the future, the technique will also offer insight into sugar and protein levels.
Customized data
RMA Techniek provides customized data sets that fully meet buyers' specific needs. "You can easily integrate our sorting machine's data into ERP packages, but since there are various systems, that often requires a customized approach," Michel concludes.
Prospects
The company uses technology like 3D graders and hyperspectral cameras to make potato sorting and grading more efficient, cost-effective, and accurate. These innovations help growers, processors, and distributors get more value from their products while reducing waste.
RMA Techniek
[email protected]
www.rma-techniek.nl