Optimizing French Fries Production with a Blanching Machine: Kosovo Customer Order Case Study
April 3, 2025Admin
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The blanching machine is primarily used for steaming, blanching, and inactivating enzymes in fruits, root vegetables, carrots, asparagus, mushrooms, fruit slices, and other delicate products. It is an essential piece of equipment for pre-processing techniques such as quick freezing, dehydration, and freeze-drying. In the processing of fruits and vegetables, the blanching machine provides a hot blanching treatment that is crucial for color preservation.
The blanching process halts the enzymatic activity in fruits and vegetables, helping to maintain their vibrant colors, enhance the natural aromas of vegetables, and retain essential fragrances. It also softens cell structure, facilitates water evaporation, and creates a strong foundation for subsequent processing requirements.
Recently, we shipped a production line to our customer in Kosovo, which includes a 1.5m root vegetable brush washing machine, a French fries cutting machine, and a 5m blanching machine. This line is designed to process French fries, carrot cubes, cauliflower, and other vegetables, with an output capacity of 500-1000 kg per hour.
Now, let’s explore the details of this production line together!
The heating method can be either electric or steam based on specific requirements. The steam inlet is utilized for conventional heating, and an automatic control system is employed to optimize steam usage, significantly enhancing production safety. The machine is equipped with imported electric heating tubes for efficient heating.
2. Control Panel
The blanching machine is equipped with a user-friendly control box, making it easy for operators to navigate. Each button’s function is clearly labeled, allowing even those unfamiliar with the machine to master its operation quickly. Additionally, we offer customization in various languages to meet customer needs. To facilitate easy access for inspection and maintenance of the electrical components and circuits within the control panel, we have implemented a snap-on design that allows for effortless switching.
The following are the two main control items of the machine:
Temperature Controller
Located in the upper right of the control panel, the temperature controller displays the heating temperature. The heating knobs on the screen control the respective heating tubes, allowing users to adjust the temperature in specific areas. This feature enables precise control of water temperature, ensuring optimal cooking conditions. Users can monitor the water temperature in real time and set desired levels; the machine will automatically stop heating upon reaching the target temperature, maintaining consistent temperatures and preserving the flavor of the food.
Frequency Converter
The chain belt of the blanching machine is managed by a PLC frequency converter located in the upper left of the control panel. This device displays the operating speed and allows for on-the-fly adjustments to the speed of the mesh belt, providing flexibility in the production process.
3. Insulation System
The blanching machine features a double-layer stainless steel rock wool insulation design, effectively preventing heat loss and maintaining the desired temperature. The machine’s inlet and outlet are equipped with blue silicone insulation curtains that facilitate the flow of materials while preventing heat dissipation. A stainless steel, watertight cover is incorporated to contain steam and prevent it from escaping, reducing the risk of scalding for operators while enhancing the overall insulation performance of the equipment. This design ensures a uniform temperature throughout the machine. Additionally, the cover is fitted with a handle, allowing operators to remove it safely without the risk of burns. This thoughtful design reflects our commitment to user safety and comfort.
4. Stainless Steel Chain Belt
The blanching machine features a chain belt constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. The belt is designed with small holes, each measuring 3mm in diameter, which effectively prevent carrot cubes and other products from becoming stuck. Additionally, these holes can be customized in various sizes to accommodate specific customer requirements. To enhance the efficient transmission of materials, we have incorporated baffles along the chain belt. These baffles facilitate batch processing and ensure the smooth movement of materials. The spacing between the baffles is adjustable, typically set at 60-80 cm, and can be customized as needed to optimize performance.
5. Power System
The VERFOODSOLUTIONS blanching machine is equipped with a CE-certified copper core gear motor that delivers strong power with low noise and minimal energy consumption. This results in stable operation, durability, and an extended service life. The variable frequency motor reducer allows for precise adjustment of the conveyor belt’s stepping speed, ensuring efficient performance.
6. Lifting Discharging Port
The conveyor belt of the blanching machine features a self-lifting function at the output end, enabling seamless output of blanched materials while retaining water within the machine. This innovative design eliminates the need for manual labor, providing a convenient and efficient solution. Furthermore, the system can be easily connected to additional machines downstream to facilitate continuous production.
7. Overflow Port
The blanching machine is equipped with an overflow port at the inlet that can be connected to a drainage system via a water pipe. This feature allows excess water to be discharged through the overflow port, preventing overflows that could contaminate the workshop environment.
8. Heating Pipe Storage
The white storage compartment on the side of the blanching machine organizes the heating pipe lines. This design not only enhances the machine’s appearance but also protects the heating pipes from potential external damage, thereby extending their service life.
Ⅱ. Vegetable Brush Washing Machine
The customer selected a 1.5-meter vegetable brush washing machine equipped with an automatic discharging function. Constructed from 304 stainless steel, the machine is both rust-proof and durable.
Brush Washing Part:
The main washing function of the machine is operated via a simple and intuitive control panel on the left. By turning on the forward knob, the washing process begins. If the desired cleaning results are not achieved after a set period, the reverse knob can be activated, allowing the brush roller to rotate in the opposite direction for further scrubbing of the vegetables.
To meet the customer’s requirement for washing and peeling potatoes, the machine is equipped with nine hard bristle brushes, ensuring a thorough scrubbing action and effective cleaning.
Automatic Discharging Port:
The right end of the vegetable brush washing machine features an automatic discharging port, eliminating the need for manual discharging and saving both time and effort.
The discharge port is operated by a separate motor, and the speed of the auger can be adjusted using the frequency conversion button located nearby. This allows for optimal operation, ensuring that different materials are thoroughly cleaned.
III. French Fries Cutting Machine
The French fries cutting machine is designed to cut potatoes directly into French fries. Based on customer specifications, we provide it with a knife set that produces 10mm x 10mm x 10mm cuts. Despite its compact size, the machine delivers high output, achieving a production capacity of up to 1000 kg per hour.
The French fries washing, cutting, and blanching line enables continuous and automatic processing, enhancing production efficiency while ensuring the hygiene, safety, and consistency of food. Additionally, various steaming and blanching lines can accommodate different food ingredients to meet diverse production needs. If you are interested in starting this project or exploring other blanching or sterilization options, please contact us, and we will develop a customized plan tailored to your requirements.
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