The global debut of Big Bin Potato Handling is being introduced by Deprez at InterPom’24. Bins with contents weighing three tons or more can be integrated into the production process thanks to this handling technique.

This method combines years of experience handling bins for the fresh market with processing sector knowledge of handling greater volumes. Before Big Bin Potato Handling, bin handling and bulk storage were two distinct strategies; today, they combine to create a harmonious whole.

“The Big Bin Potato Handling is a specific solution primarily aimed at potato processors with a wide range of specialties. Thanks to the use of optical sorters, the maximum value can be achieved from each potato after targeted sorting and grading. Individual references are identified and stored to be directed to the right destination. When the storage process is adjusted, production capabilities can be optimized,” the company representatives told the media.

Controlled Storage

Controlled storage is Big Bin Potato Handling’s primary benefit. There is more control over the specific storage with the bins. A potato can be more precisely classified according to its size and quality, as well as the more detailed information it offers. Additionally, this technique is future-proof to allow for future sorting by other attributes.

In terms of traceability, these large bins offer a second advantage. The traceability of a batch of potatoes is much more precise than in, for example, a bulk tank, allowing for even more detailed batch tracking.

Another major advantage of Big Bin Potato Handling is in gentle storage: the potatoes are not stacked as high as in traditional bulk tanks, and the building’s height can be utilized to limit the footprint.
A fourth advantage is the gentle handling of the potatoes, with significantly fewer drops. Big Bin Potato Handling can store up to 5,000 liters of product. By moving the bins rather than the individual potatoes, the potatoes are directed more accurately within the processing flow, reducing the number of transfers and minimizing the risk of bruising.

“Here, Deprez applies a proven concept: by moving larger bins, the total production capacity multiplies. Previously, bins of 1,400 liters were handled; now, bins of 5,000 liters can be managed. This step is the result of Deprez’s experience in fresh packaging. Same number of bins, same number of machines, same speeds, but with larger bin capacity and an increase in hourly volume,” the company engineers added.

Challenges and Solutions

The French fry industry is growing exponentially to meet the rising demand for fast food and the growing world population. The sale of frozen potato products is increasing annually by about 4%. To meet this demand, growers are seeking higher yields, and the processing industry is intensively looking for more profitable processing methods.

In the fresh market, the need for traceability has also driven greater flexibility, which is challenging for the French fry industry due to the large volumes involved. Big Bin Potato Handling provides a solution, allowing for volumes four times greater than the previous 800 kg per bin.

In this market, climate change, stricter regulations, and fluctuating energy costs are factors that influence a company’s direction. The sustainability of operations has become crucial. This innovation supports the potato sector in efficient production and deeper development.

Deprez, based in Belgium, is the ideal partner for optimizing the logistics of a production environment by improving both storage capacity and internal processes. For over 40 years, the company has been providing solutions for bin handling in the potato processing industry.

Deprez possesses significant specialized experience in receiving, washing, and sorting potatoes for the processing industry, such as chips, frozen fries, croquettes, etc. The company representatives and machinery will be available at InterPom’24, stand 118.