Flikweert Vision has reached a significant milestone, producing its 200th QualityGrader just three years after the machine’s market debut. Initially developed for the optical sorting of unwashed potatoes, the QualityGrader has evolved into a versatile solution capable of sorting onions and washed potatoes. This technology is now in use globally, from the United States to New Zealand, and demand continues to rise.
The Development of the QualityGrader
Launched in 2021, the first QualityGrader revolutionized the Dutch seed potato industry by offering an innovative solution for sorting unwashed potatoes. In 2023, the company expanded its offering with the introduction of a QualityGrader for onions, which quickly became popular among Dutch onion processors. The success of the QualityGrader has extended beyond the Netherlands, with machines now being used in Germany, France, the UK, the USA, Canada, and Australia. A key driver of this success has been the continuous improvement of the machine’s software, which is also available for previously installed machines, ensuring that early adopters have access to the same advanced features as the latest units.
Recent Hardware Upgrades
Three months ago, Flikweert Vision introduced two major hardware upgrades for the QualityGrader. The number of cameras was increased from three to six, enabling products to be inspected from two different angles, thereby improving accuracy in detecting small defects. Additionally, the computing power of the machine was enhanced, increasing its capacity to sort up to 20 tons per hour. These upgrades have solidified the QualityGrader’s position as a leading optical sorting solution in the international market.
QualityGraders for Albert Elligsen GmbH
The 200th QualityGrader will be delivered to Albert Elligsen GmbH, a German packaging company that specializes in washed table potatoes and onions. This family-run business, founded in 1931 and now led by Dirk Elligsen, invested in four QualityGraders this past summer. Seeking to reduce labor costs and streamline operations, Elligsen opted for a machine capable of switching between potatoes and onions at the push of a button. Confident in the machine’s performance after observing it in action, the new equipment will be installed in November in collaboration with DT Dijkstra.
Partnership with DT Dijkstra
The installation of the QualityGraders will be carried out with the help of DT Dijkstra, the company responsible for Elligsen’s current sorting line. DT Dijkstra, based in Emmeloord, specializes in custom solutions for receiving, cleaning, sorting, and packaging products such as potatoes, onions, and carrots. By collaborating closely and coordinating technical designs, the teams have created an optimal solution that minimizes downtime during installation.
A Growing Team with a Vision
In recent years, Flikweert Vision has seen significant growth, expanding its team to about 50 employees who are dedicated to producing and developing optical sorting machines. With continued growth and development, Flikweert Vision aims to become a global leader in optical sorting technology for potatoes and onions.