Case Studies: Pistachio Nuts

When the world’s largest producer of pistachio nuts wanted to install a new, high-performance packing line, the company approached Nerak Wiese for a solution. Following success overseas, the nut supplier had decided to turn its attention to growth in Europe by launching a pan-European sales drive, supported by the opening of a brand-new packing line.

The Challenge

The client sought a flexible, highly efficient and high-performing material handling solution for its investment in the new facility. The company not only required equipment that would handle the pistachio nuts gently but also a smart solution design that would facilitate access in order to maintain high standards of hygiene. The demands for cleanliness and system availability meant that the internal parts of the equipment would need to be smooth in order to minimize the build-up of product.

Nerak Wiese’s proposal, featuring its proven bucket elevators, proved successful in winning the project in the face of strong competition from a number of international suppliers.

Nerak Wiese completed the entire process – from design to handover – within just 12 weeks from the initial order.

The Solution

The Nerak Wiese solution was for a fully integrated processing line – incorporating bucket elevators, vibratory feed conveyors, weighers, wrappers, dust extractors and a stainless steel mezzanine floor – and addressed all of the customer’s needs in a cost-effective way. The requirement for gentle and efficient handling was met by the installation of metal-detectable, food-quality buckets for the elevators. Hygiene needs were met by the buckets being easily removable, as well as by specifying removable access panels with key-type interlocks to allow safe entry for cleaning. Smooth equipment interiors were incorporated as standard to minimize the need for cleaning.

As the project progressed, Nerak Wiese was asked to install additional elements – including HMI (human-machine interface) screens, sound booths and line silencers – which were integrated into the overall plan seamlessly and with no issues. Despite the extra equipment, the entire project – including on-site installation, controls and commissioning – was delivered on time and within budget.

The Benefits

From the initial design stage to the two-week installation period, this project was completed to an exceptionally high standard by the Nerak Wiese team. Through excellent communication and professional integration with the local workforce, Nerak Wiese completed the entire process – from design to handover – within just 12 weeks from the initial order. This rapid and successful project design, management and installation period allowed the client to begin operations and recoup its investment more quickly.