PPM Technologies and Key Technology have introduced a new fully integrated potato chip processing line aimed at helping manufacturers manage increasingly complex production environments, where raw material variability, labor availability and product consistency remain persistent operational challenges.

The two companies, both part of Duravant, will formally present the line at SNACKEX 2026 in Lisbon, positioning the launch around a broader industry shift toward tighter integration between processing stages and greater visibility across production performance.

The new system combines PPM’s frying, seasoning and conveying technologies with Key’s optical sorting capabilities into a single processing architecture spanning slicing through packaging. According to the companies, the objective is to improve finished product consistency, recover more usable product, reduce labor dependency and simplify project execution through a single-source supply model. The line is built around two alternative frying platforms depending on the processor’s product focus. For kettle-style chips, PPM integrates its BatchWright batch fryer, designed to provide close control of the frying profile to achieve targeted texture, color and flavor characteristics. Conventional potato chip operations are served by the CookWright continuous fryer, which offers configurable heating, belt and filtration arrangements depending on production requirements. Both systems incorporate oil filtration and clean-in-place functionality intended to support oil management and reduce sanitation downtime.

Following frying, product passes through Key’s COMPASS optical sorter, which serves as the final inspection point before packaging. The system combines multi-channel sensor inputs and multi-wavelength strobing to identify defects including dark spots, green discoloration, white knots and fryer debris. The companies emphasize that the approach avoids more complex laser-based inspection configurations while maintaining product inspection performance across extended production runs. Recipe-based operation, simplified controls and hygienic design are intended to reduce training and maintenance requirements.

Seasoning is handled through PPM’s FlavorWright All-in-One platform, positioned directly upstream of weighing and packaging. The system supports both liquid and dry seasoning applications and is designed to accommodate applications ranging from basic salt application through more complex multi-stage flavor systems involving oils, slurries and powders. Quick-release components and IP65 washdown capability are intended to support frequent product changeovers. Upstream, potato feeding and transfer are coordinated through PPM’s conveying infrastructure. A slice feeder equipped with dual augers meters potatoes into the slicer to support slice uniformity, while horizontal-motion and vibratory conveyors move and meter product through subsequent stages. Optional recirculation conveyors can maintain product flow when downstream weighing or packaging equipment experiences interruptions, reducing waste and preserving uptime.

The line also incorporates centralized and local controls together with Key Discovery software, which collects and analyzes sorter data to provide visibility into reject rates, yield performance, raw material variability and upstream process conditions. The companies position this data layer as a tool for identifying performance trends and supporting process optimization over time. Commenting on the launch, Daniel Luna, Director of Processing at PPM Technologies, said: “Potato chip processing lines that hold up under challenging conditions aren’t just well spec-ed. They’re built by partners who understand what each stage demands, can anticipate future needs and are committed to making those technologies work as one cohesive unit.” He added that the companies’ experience extends beyond installation into long-term operational support.

The integrated line will be showcased at SNACKEX 2026, taking place on 17–18 June at FIL Expo in Lisbon, Portugal.