November 22, 2023 – In a boost for the agricultural processing sector, CTS has been awarded the design contract for a state-of-the-art drying facility dedicated to vegetable processing. This comprehensive project includes the design and integration of balance of plant systems and advanced materials handling solutions, aimed at enhancing efficiency and productivity in vegetable processing.
The upgraded drying facility will cater to a wide range of vegetables, providing a critical step in preserving and preparing produce for market. The facility is designed to streamline operations, reduce energy consumption, and improve product quality. CTS’s role in this project underscores their expertise in delivering cutting-edge engineering solutions for the food processing industry.
Sean Weech, the Lead CTS Engineer for this project, shared his enthusiasm about the design, stating, “We are thrilled to contribute to expanding this facility. Our comprehensive design approach will ensure the plant operates at peak efficiency, with robust materials handling and balance of plant systems.”
CTS will be responsible for several critical components of the project:
- Comprehensive Facility Design: Developing a detailed design for the drying facility, including the layout of drying equipment, pelletizing equipment, storage handling, materials handling systems, and integration of balance of plant components to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
- Balance of Plant Systems: Designing essential auxiliary systems that support the main processing operations, such as HVAC, electrical systems, and utilities. This ensures the facility operates reliably and efficiently.
- Materials Handling Solutions: Creating advanced materials handling systems to manage the flow of vegetables through the drying process. This includes conveyor systems, sorting and grading equipment, and automated handling solutions to minimize manual intervention and optimize throughput.
The upgraded drying facility will incorporate several advanced technologies to enhance performance and sustainability:
- High-Efficiency Drying Technology: Utilizing cutting-edge drying technology that ensures even and efficient moisture removal from vegetables, preserving their nutritional value and quality.
- Automated Materials Handling: Implementing automated handling systems that reduce labor costs and increase processing speed. These systems will be designed for flexibility to handle different types of vegetables with minimal adjustments.
- Energy Optimization: Integrating energy-efficient systems and processes to reduce the facility’s overall energy consumption. This includes the use of heat recovery systems and energy-efficient motors and drives.
The upgraded facility is expected to provide significant benefits by enhancing the efficiency and quality of vegetable processing. By utilizing advanced drying and materials handling technologies, the facility will ensure consistent product quality and reduce processing times. Additionally, the energy-efficient design will lower operational costs and minimize the environmental footprint.
Stace Campbell, President and CTO at CTS, highlighted the benefits, stating, “Our design will transform the way vegetables are processed and dried. This project not only boosts operational efficiency but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.”
With the design phase set to begin immediately, CTS aims to complete the project by Q3 2024. This upgraded facility will serve as a model for future vegetable processing plants, showcasing the feasibility and advantages of integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
The successful implementation of this project positions CTS as a leader in engineering design in the food processing sector, demonstrating their capability to deliver innovative, efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions.