Modular processing lines expand fresh-cut capacity to 1,500 kg per hour

Kronen GmbH offers modular processing lines for salad leaves and vegetables, allowing companies to expand capacity and automation in stages. The systems combine cutting, washing, drying, weighing, and packaging equipment, with existing machines retained as additional processing steps are introduced.

Four stages of expansion

The initial semi-automatic line includes a trimming table, GS 10-2 belt cutting machine, Hewa 3800 Helical washing machine, KS-100 Plus spin-dryer, and Flex L packaging machine. Depending on the product, capacity reaches up to 200 kg per hour.

© Kronen

The second stage adds conveyors, cutting equipment, pre-washing capacity, and another spin-dryer. A multi-head weigher is introduced in the third stage to automate weighing and dosing. These additions increase processing capacity to 600 or 900 kg per hour.

The fourth stage integrates the K1040H horizontal drying system, enabling automated processing of up to 1,500 kg per hour.

© Kronen

Expansion at Pentz in Germany

Pentz GmbH & Co. KG, based in Essingen, has worked with Kronen since 2007. The company, established in 1948, expanded from eggs into fruit, vegetables, and kitchen-ready products during the 1990s.

Its initial installation comprised standalone cutting, washing, and drying machines, some of which remain operational. Over the following decade, Pentz added spin-dryers, a GS 10 cutting machine, and a Gewa washing machine.

© Kronen

A packaging system followed in 2017, while a further processing line was installed in 2026.

"For us, it is important that our technology can grow with our company. Together with Kronen, we have been able to expand our processing equipment step by step according to increasing capacities, a growing range, and new requirements," said Managing Director Maximilian Pentz.

Further automation in Colombia

Colombian fresh-cut company Vive Agro began working with Kronen in 2011, installing cutting, washing, and drying equipment for fruit, vegetables, and salad leaves.

© Kronen

In 2012, it added a Gewa washing machine and KS-100 Plus spin-dryer, connecting the washing machines with an inclined conveyor for continuous processing.

Further expansion followed in 2017 with another spin-dryer and a Flex L packaging machine. The company plans to install a multi-head weigher in 2026 to automate weighing and dosing.

Vive Agro supplies kitchen-ready products to restaurants, commercial kitchens, supermarkets, and food manufacturers.

Planning for future capacity

Kronen coordinates equipment selection, line planning, installation, and subsequent expansion, combining its machinery with technology from partner companies.

According to Managing Director Johannes Günther, planning considers the entire processing sequence rather than individual machines, allowing existing equipment to be incorporated as capacity and automation requirements change.

For more information:

Kira Krollpfeiffer

© KronenKronen

Tel: +49 (0) 7854 9646 160

Email: [email protected]

www.kronen.eu

Christina Maier-Streif

Kronen

Tel: +49 (0) 7854 9646 161

Email: [email protected]