ions has modified the Primus Gemini. The sorter is now available under the name Primus Gemini+. Frank de Brauwer, Market Unit Manager Fruit explains: "This machine was specifically built and optimized to sort fresh blueberries, but is also suitable for the sort of other fresh or frozen berries."Optical and mechanical modifications
He states that the modifications to the machine concern both optical and mechanical improvements; "The sorter has the Advanced Shrivelled Detector integrated, which further improves the contrast between good and shrivelled blueberries. Thanks to the integration of this technology up to 90% of all shrivelled berries are recognized and removed from the product stream. Furthermore the cleaning system has been improved and various mechanical updates have been integrated. These last two developments optimize the stability and shorten the maintenance time, both resulting in a lower running cost.
Optimizing
Frank indicates that this machine is the answer to further optimizing the sorting process and minimizing the loss of fruit. "The capacity of the machine is up to three tonnes per hour. At the moment there is mainly interest from North American, Eastern and Southern European fruit processors. TOMRA Sorting Solutions has the knowledge to develop new applications for every segment of the fruit sector. The focus that is created by working step by step and listening to our customers, contributes to be a product specialist and being able to develop machines according to the needs of the market. Both the costs and the product loss have to be limited as much as possible, whereas the turnover must increase. We enjoy working on the further optimization of the sorting process with our clients." “The biggest challenge we face in serving the fruit sector is the climate which has a huge influence on the production capacities and the product quality," concludes De Brauwer.
