Start-up line with a modular setup that grows with your operations – from the raw product to the packaged goods
The semi-automatic basic processing and packaging line provides start-ups and small and medium-sized companies with an introduction to fresh-cut production that offers low space requirements and high flexibility. The line is designed to be expanded step by step – from the basic line (Step 1) to the expanded production line (Step 2 or 3). A further expansion step is also possible for full automation (Step 4).
The line configuration shown is an example and can be individually adapted to the requirements and production conditions of each processing facility.
Preparing, cutting, washing, drying, and packaging 200 to 900 kg or 1,500 kg per hour
The line is used for the complete processing of the raw material to the end product packaged in bags. It integrates a multitude of KRONEN machines with a solution from the KRONEN partner GKS Packaging.
Step 1 – Basic line:
The raw product is checked and prepared by up to four employees at the preparation station. It is then cut using the GS 10-2 belt cutting machine, washed with the HEWA 3800 washing machine, and disinfected where needed. The product is then gently discharged via the vibration outfeed, and the water is filtered and reused. Next, the product falls into the spin-dryer baskets on the basket carousel. An employee places the baskets in the KS-100 PLUS spin-dryer one by one for drying and then fills the FLEX L bag packaging machine.
Step 2 – expanding the line:
As the production volume grows, the line can be easily expanded, for example by adding a conveyor belt from the cutting machine to the washing unit, a second cutting machine like the KUJ-V, an additional, raised HEWA 3800 as a pre-washing machine, and another KS-100 PLUS spin-dryer.
Step 3 – advanced expansion level:
For further expansion, three KS-100 PLUS spin-dryers and a fully automated multi-head weigher can be used – for maximum packaging efficiency.
Step 4 – maximum expansion level:
The spin-dryers can be replaced with the K1040H horizontal drying system to fully automate the processing and packaging line. This further increases the capacity of the system to up to 1,500 kg/h.
The following machines and solutions are integrated into the line:
- Preparation: Trimming table for 4 people
- Cutting: GS 10-2 belt cutting machine, optionally with a large selection of different knives,
and at expansion level Step 2 with the KUJ-V cube, strip & slice cutting machine as a second cutting machine - Conveying: in Step 2 with the PLUS inclined conveyor belt
- Washing: HELICAL washing machine HEWA 3800 with vibration outfeed and insect and fine particle removal system
and pre-washing in step 2 with a raised HELICAL washing machine HEWA 3800 with vibration outfeed - Drying: KS-100 PLUS lettuce and vegetable spin-dryer with a KAB automated basket carousel
Higher performance: in Step 2 with two spin-dryers or in Step 3 with three spin-dryers
Full automation: in Step 4 with the K1040H horizontal drying system - Packaging: GKS packaging solution with a FLEX L packaging machine
- The packaging machine can be optionally fitted with a connection for gas flushing for MAP packaging of products and with a printer for details such as the lot number, barcode, and best before date.
- Discharge conveyor with an optional metal detector
- Turntable for buffering
- Weighing: For expansion level Step 3, a platform with a multi-head weigher and inclined conveyor is added
Application options and capacities:
The line is ideal for processing leaf lettuce such as iceberg lettuce, lollo rosso, or arugula/rocket, as well as for cut vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or cabbage.
Its capacity depends on the product processed and the packaging size. The line can process capacities such as:
- Up to 200 kg/h in Step 1 – start-up line
- Up to 600 kg/h in Step 2 – expanded line
- Up to 900 kg/h in Step 3 – advanced expansion of the line
- Up to 1,500 kg/h in Step 4 – maximum, fully automated expansion level
