We always had the belief that it is not possible to solve all peeling problems with one type of peeler, so we always kept our options open by delivering all the main types of peelers to the market. Our well known range of batch abrasive peelers are delivered predominately to the snack industry, where for many clients they are the bench mark peeler. These types of peelers have also been delivered to fresh potato processors and indeed to the flake industry. We also offer a range of continuous abrasive peelers, which are used world wide by clients involved in the fresh potato market.
Some processors of cooked potatoes favour these machines and they are also used on smaller French fries and flake lines as a cost effective alternative to steam peelers. One interesting application for these machines is to use them in conjunction with steam peelers; the abrasive peeler is placed after the steam peeler to remove the so called “cook ring”, which can be a problem in some process applications. This configuration allows an end user to take advantage of the high yield from the steam peeler, but gives a final product which is still “fresh”.
Recently a new model of steam peeler was launched. We have a policy of continuous improvement and in recent months a series of innovations has changed the nature of the machine considerably. We felt it was time to re launch it under a new name, the STRATA® steam peeler.
The STRATA® features a new vessel with a twin wall construction, that allows steam to be injected around its complete circumference and along its whole length, giving even distribution of the steam. The free area available for steam discharge during the exhaust cycle is large enough to allow a very quick reduction in pressure, which has been shown to improve peel loss. Plus, the condensate removal and collection system has been repositioned outside the vessel, giving two main benefits: firstly, the vessel volume available for product has increased by up to 30%.
Secondly, by collecting the condensate through the perforated inner wall and feeding it to an external condensate tank with a small surface area, it is more difficult for liquid to flash back to steam. This means the volume of fluid (liquid and gas together) is reduced, allowing the vessel to be evacuated quicker, which improves the “explosive” peeling effect. In addition, a new control system reduces the dead time in the peeling cycle, which allows more cycles per hour and allows the vessel to be loaded at an incline, thereby reducing drop height.
The STRATA® vessel can be incorporated into existing frames of peeling lines, increasing the capacity of a line without needing to buy a whole new peeler.
A number of STRATA® peelers are already operating throughout the world. We can now deliver exactly what most of the industry requires, a modern, efficient and effective steam peeler with a proven track record.
We will continue to deliver all types of peelers as we believe it is necessary to offer the right machine for the right application.