Turnkey Compressed Air System Installed for Optical Grain Sorter

Avelair have successfully installed a turnkey compressed air system for a state-of-the-art optical grain sorter at a leading food processing facility in Suffolk.

Grain sorting plays a critical role in ensuring food quality, safety, and consistency. With increasing demands for cleaner, higher-quality grain, processors are turning to advanced optical sorting technology to remove defective or contaminated grains, stones, and foreign materials with pinpoint accuracy. These systems rely heavily on high-quality compressed air to function effectively.

Why Compressed Air Is Used in Optical Grain Sorting

Optical grain sorters use high-speed cameras and sensors to inspect individual grains as they pass through the system. When a defect is detected—whether it’s discolouration, damage, or contamination—the sorter uses a short, precise blast of compressed air to separate the unwanted item from the rest of the product stream. These air blasts must be consistent, clean, and precisely timed to avoid disrupting the flow of good product.

Compressed air is ideal for this application due to its responsiveness, cleanliness, and ability to deliver non-contact, instant ejection of defective grains. However, the quality of the air is vital. Any oil, water, or contaminants in the air supply can damage the sorter’s delicate nozzles or contaminate the product itself, leading to costly downtime and quality issues.

The Need for Dry and Oil-Free Air

To meet the high standards of the food industry, the compressed air used in this installation had to be exceptionally clean and dry. Avelair provided a turnkey compressed air system comprising an oil-free compressor, desiccant dryer, and high-efficiency filtration to ensure Class 0 oil-free air, free of moisture and particulates. The system also includes a receiver for pressure stability and full installation support.

Dry air prevents condensation within the air lines and sorting machinery, which is crucial for maintaining consistent performance and avoiding corrosion or blockages. Oil-free air is essential in a food-grade environment, ensuring there’s no risk of product contamination or machinery fouling.

A Complete Turnkey Solution

At Avelair, we pride ourselves on delivering complete, turnkey compressed air systems that are tailored to our clients’ specific requirements. For this project, we handled every step—from system design and equipment selection to installation and commissioning. Our experienced engineers worked closely with the site team to ensure minimal disruption and optimal integration.

We also provide ongoing support, including maintenance and aftercare support, to ensure the system continues to operate reliably and efficiently.

Supporting Quality and Efficiency in the Food Sector

This installation is a great example of how the right compressed air solution can directly support product quality and process efficiency. As grain sorting technology evolves, the demand for high-quality compressed air will only increase. Avelair is proud to support food processors across the UK with expert advice, reliable equipment, and full-service support.

If you’re looking for a turnkey compressed air system for your production facility, get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help.