Grading the delicate Vildmose potato in Denmark

SKALS raises the bar with Vildmose potato grading

ASSIGNMENT:

The objective was to build a user-friendly, reliable and flexible system, capable of running with just a single person or truck driver. Therefore, a special solution was developed, based on standard SKALS specifications. The solution consists of an installation with an inlet hopper for trucks, boxes and bags' silo. From this point, a cross-flow pintle belt runs to the soil extractor. After the potatoes have been cleaned, the next step is the brushing machine, before heading towards the roller inspection table. Once the potatoes have been manually inspected, they go to the grading machine and eventually down to the box fillers. The box fillers are equipped with automatic shifts, allowing the system to continue to run, even while shifting boxes.

Following close consultation between the client and SKALS, the above layout was selected. Both parties saw their ideas made reality.

The end result

The new Aksel Nielsen potato grading line.

Flexible and optimised process

The process in the new system has been fully optimised, making it possible to place the inlet silo in several positions with a cross-flow pintle belt. For Aksel Nielsen, it is crucial that the system can be used for both storage and grading. This is particularly important, due to the special soil conditions that Vildmose potatoes are grown in. Due to the large amounts of rain, the thick layer of sphagnum (peat moss) can complicate the working process in the potato fields. This means that the potato grower is often forced to postpone the harvest, to avoid the sphagnum soil turning into big lump of mud. This presents an additional challenge that other potato areas do not have to face.

Great efficiency and increased profit

One of the unique advantages of the new grading system is that Aksel Nielsen is able to grade the potatoes in three different sizes with very high precision. The system allows the potatoes to be graded in a quick and efficient manner, thereby allowing the potatoes to be sold at a better price.

Removal of noise and dust

The grading system has also significantly reduced noise levels. Since the installation of the new system, there has been no noise in the production area, and Aksel Nielsen is even able to use his mobile phone while working near the grading line. This was not possible before. Additionally, extraction has been applied to the system to remove dust in the air. This has improved the working environment significantly.

The brushing machine plays a key role

Since the Vildmose potatoes are never washed, the brushing machine is essential. Therefore, Aksel Nielsen has chosen a brushing machine with extra high capacity. Once the potatoes have been through the brushing machine, they actually look as if they have been washed. It is a clear advantage not to wash the potatoes, as bacteria and the spreading of diseases is avoided.

A SKALS roller inspection table

Customer satisfaction

Aksel Nielsen and his father Ole Nielsen have both been loyal SKALS customers for more than 30 years. Choosing SKALS as their supplier was an easy decision, and they have always enjoyed a highly satisfactory and professional relationship, process and service.

Bagged Vildmose potatoes

Brushed, but not washed, bagged potatoes. One of the special things about the Vildmose potatoes is that they are not washed. The customer is able to see and feel the natural skin of the potatoes.

RESULTS:

• Flexible and optimised process - The system can be used for storage throughout the potato season
• Increased grading capacity
• Improved working environment - less noise and dust
• Increased production efficiency = improved profit and competitiveness

Aksel Nielsen and his father Ole Nielsen

SOLUTION:

• Inlet Hopper for trucks, boxes and bags - Suitable for backwards tipping and box filling
• RP Cross-flow pintle belt - removes sphagnum, straw, soil and dirt
• R Soil Extractor - Soil, sand, sprouting etc. are effectively removed
• BM Brushing - Dirt and soil removed by brushes - Improved visual appearance of the produce- Integrated bypass conveyor - brushing optional
• RB Roller Inspection table - Lighting ensures optimal working conditions
• SDe Grader - Grading machine with Shock-principle, which ensures optimal precision
• DP2000 - Double box filler - Automatic box switch via turntable function, which ensures that wide boxes are evenly filled

Aksel Nielsen has taken over the farm from his father Ole Nielsen who had been running the farm since 1966. Aksel started out when he was just 18 years old, and has been a farmer for 30 years