At the recent Interpom trade fair in Kortrijk, Belgium, Dewulf, a prominent Belgian machinery manufacturer, unveiled its latest innovation: the MG 240 optical sorter. This biennial event, which took place from November 24 to 26, serves as a significant platform for the entire potato sector, encompassing everything from cultivation to processing and marketing. The MG 240 is poised to revolutionize how potatoes are sorted, offering enhanced efficiency and precision for producers.
The MG 240 is a mobile sorting unit that can seamlessly integrate with any brand of hopper that has a 2.4-meter outflow. This adaptability is crucial for potato producers who may use various equipment types. To install the MG 240, operators simply need to remove the hopper’s outfeed conveyor and attach the feed conveyor of the optical sorter behind the hopper’s rollers. This straightforward installation process makes it an attractive option for farms looking to upgrade their sorting capabilities without extensive modifications.
One of the standout features of the MG 240 is its advanced camera technology, which provides a full 360-degree view of the potatoes being sorted. This comprehensive visual capability allows the machine to efficiently identify and remove clods, stones, and defective or green potatoes. The ejection technology, sourced from the Italian manufacturer Raytec, works in conjunction with the camera to ensure that only the highest quality potatoes continue along the production line. This level of precision not only enhances product quality but also reduces waste, which is a growing concern in the agricultural sector.
The MG 240 is designed to be a stand-alone unit, meaning it can be added to or removed from a storage line with minimal disruption. Its full chassis ensures mobility, allowing it to be repositioned as needed. Adjustable support legs provide precise leveling, further enhancing its operational efficiency. With an intended sorting capacity of 80 to 100 tons per hour, the MG 240 is positioned to meet the demands of large-scale potato operations.
Currently, the sorter on display at Dewulf’s stand is a prototype. Following the trade fair, the machine will undergo rigorous testing at a large arable farm in the northern Netherlands. Dewulf plans to produce six pre-series models next year for extensive testing, which will help refine the machine’s capabilities and address any potential issues before full-scale production begins. Although the exact sales price has yet to be confirmed, Dewulf estimates it will be around €400,000, a significant investment that reflects the advanced technology and potential return on investment for producers.
The introduction of the MG 240 comes at a time when the potato industry is increasingly focused on efficiency and sustainability. As producers face rising labor costs and the need for higher quality standards, innovations like the MG 240 optical sorter offer a viable solution. By automating the sorting process, producers can not only save time and labor but also improve the overall quality of their product, which is essential in a competitive market.
Dewulf’s commitment to innovation in the potato sector is evident in the design and functionality of the MG 240. As the machine moves into the testing phase, the industry will be watching closely to see how it performs in real-world conditions. If successful, the MG 240 could set a new standard for potato sorting technology, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable practices in the agricultural sector.