WECO recently introduced the Multiscan MXV-Bulk X-ray inspection system for in-shell nut applications.

The system analyzes density differences inside each nut to identify hidden quality defects, insufficient kernel fill and dense foreign material (FM). By removing these materials from the product stream, the MXV-Bulk helps processors achieve higher product grades, increase per-pound value and reduce the need for manual inspection. The system is designed for pecans, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts and other nuts.

“Nut processors have traditionally relied on optical inspection methods that cannot tell them what is happening inside the shell. While X-ray is broadly used in food processing, this is the first system of its kind to evaluate the internal quality of in-shell nuts in North America,” said Nick Lightfoot, vice president at WECO. “With the MXV-Bulk, we’ve seen customers nearly eliminate the need for end-of-line manual inspection while raising their average product grade several points. When processors are selling on kernel yield, that combination can produce a meaningful improvement to the bottom line.”

The system can identify defects with no obvious external signs, including empty shells, insect damage and internal mold, as well as stones, glass, ceramics and embedded metal.

Nuts move through the MXV-Bulk on a belt that stabilizes and evenly distributes product for consistent scanning. The system captures and analyzes each object, then signals air valves to eject out-of-tolerance product or FM. It complements optical sorting and aspiration by adding internal-density information to the quality-control process. Operators set density thresholds on the touchscreen and can configure inspection for specific areas of each nut and different varieties or quality targets.