Kanes Foods in the United Kingdom has introduced a new processing line for iceberg lettuce following a complete modification of an existing setup by Kronen GmbH. The project involved combining previously installed equipment with new components and adapting the line to the layout and workflow of the production facility.
Kanes Foods, a long-time user of Kronen machinery for preparing, cutting, washing, and drying vegetables, required the integration of older machines with new technology to form a continuous line suitable for iceberg lettuce and other leafy products. The line design and positioning of components were planned directly in the production hall.
© Kronen
The installation includes a six-person trimming table modified to match the floor conditions and allow effective transfer of raw material to an existing cutting machine. An already installed weighing belt was reworked into an inclined conveyor, while an additional transport belt was added for continuous operation. The company also integrated an existing Kronen GEWA 4000 V washing machine, which was adapted to the new control configuration.
A new GEWA 4000 B PLUS washer was added, equipped with a fine-particle removal system, water management and recycling features, an insect drum, and a circulation pipe system adapted for the facility's tubular heat exchanger. Its discharge belt includes a suction unit to begin water removal. Washed product transfers directly onto the buffer belt of the drying system.
© Kronen
Kanes Foods also installed a Kronen K850 drying system with a buffer belt designed for stand-alone use. The discharge section was adapted so that dried lettuce moves directly into crates through a modified crate slide. With these combined changes, the line now processes up to 1,400 kg of iceberg lettuce per hour.
Kronen and its UK sales partner Lingwood carried out the installation, with planning, modification, and commissioning coordinated jointly. Prior to installation, the Kanes Foods project team visited Kronen's headquarters in Kehl am Rhein, Germany, to review and approve the machinery.
© Kronen
A project manager from Kanes Foods stated that cooperation with Kronen and Lingwood was central to achieving the line integration and modifications required by the facility. The line has been in operation since early summer and is now part of the company's salad bowl production.
Kira Krollpfeiffer
Kronen
© KronenTel: +49 (0)7854 9646 160
Email: [email protected]
www.kronen.eu
Christina Maier-Streif
Kronen
Tel.: +49 (0)7854 9646 161
E-mail: [email protected]
