Key introduces new precision grader for green beans

Key Technology has expanded their family of rotary sizing and grading systems for green beans. With the introduction of a new 14-roller PSG, Key said it has enabled processors to replace drum graders with minimal impact to surrounding equipment. The PSG separates beans by diameter and maintains accuracy over time, Key said, to help processors make grade while maximizing yield.

“Ideal for grading snipped and unsnipped whole and cut green beans for fresh pack, frozen and canned product applications, Key’s rotary sizing and grading systems are available in widths of 2, 3, 4 or 5 feet (0.6 to 1.5 meters),” the company wrote.

The PSG separates green beans by diameter. Featuring a series of rollers with gaps in between, thin and curled beans fall through as thicker beans are conveyed across the top. The rollers spin at progressive speeds, e.g., the second spins faster than the first to spread product and optional deflectors turn beans, ensuring every bean has the chance to fall through. Rollers are faceted and textured to create gentle agitation so product is lively across the top to either find a gap or roll along.

The gaps between the rollers of the PSG can be adjusted to change the diameter threshold to modify the grade or process different green bean varietals or other products such as potatoes or carrots. Rotating a single handle adjusts all the gaps throughout the machine to grade by a new size cross section. The PSG can be adjusted and cleaned to handle a new grade or product in less than 10 minutes, according to Key. The company said it can equip the PSG with an optional variable frequency drive to enable adjustments in motor speed to handle changes in throughput, product condition or the aggressiveness of the grade.