Potato Chip Moisture
Immediate Process Improvements
Moisture measurement and control play a crucial role in the manufacturing of potato chips. It not only affects the taste but also influences the texture and shelf-life of the chips. Additionally, oil measurement is necessary for labeling purposes and to maintain consistency in flavor. It also provides valuable insights into the replacement of slicing knives during the production process. While both measurements can be conducted offline, online measurement offers the advantage of immediate feedback. By interfacing with your PLC, the moisture measurement can be utilized in an automatic control loop, further enhancing the production process.
MoistTech’s IR3000-F, is an ideally suited management system to measure the moisture content in the potatos before frying or to monitor potato chip oil levels during the manufacturing process. The sensor is coated in a food grade Teflon with a polymeric viewing window enabling manufacturers to improve product quality without any contamination. This state-of-the-art analyzer can also measure temperature, oil, fat, sugar, seasonings, protein, and more, giving the user full process control.
Measure Moisture in Real Time
non-contact
Our equipment never comes into contact with the product, allowing for less waste
zero drift
Our sensors are guaranteed not to drift over time – which saves time and money
closed loop
Create a closed-loop process by tying a moisture sensor into your PLC. Full control over the line!
no recalibrations
We’ve mastered the art of moisture sensors – your unit will never need to be recalibrated for the same product twice!
Installation
Gauges are commonly placed following the Fryer above the Vibrating Conveyor, and before packaging at the exit of the Seasoning Drum. To ensure accuracy, it is recommended that the gauge be located at least 3 Feet away from the exit after the Fryer, allowing for equilibration and reducing noise caused by rapid surface moisture evaporation. For optimal results, the gauge should be installed 4-12 inches above the chips to accommodate variations in bed depth.
An ideal spot for measurement at the exit of the seasoning drum is on the drop from the Drum onto the Conveyor leading to the Bucket Conveyor. The Food Grade IR3000 is specifically designed to meet the stringent hygiene and safety standards of a food production facility. Constructed from stainless steel, it features a Kel F or sapphire window. The IR3000 is equipped with a sensor window air purge diffuser to create positive pressure, minimizing oil deposition on the window. Due to the high temperatures near the fryer exit, the gauge should be equipped with a built-in cooling panel that can be supplied with water or air (vortex).
Contact
We offer service and support throughout the world for our moisture measurement sensors and would be happy to connect you with a rep in your area. Contact us today for more information!
Understand the Process
Instantly and accurately measure moisture and oil in potato chip manufacturing to ensure the highest quality and consistency! A moisture measurement system from MoistTech can ensure you stand out above the competition!