PPM Technologies Introduces FlavorWright SmartSpray Food Coating System

PPM Technologies (PPM), a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Solutions group, introduced its new FlavorWright SmartSpray food coating system at Pack Expo booth S-2854. Designed for vitamins, gummies and other confectionery goods, this system applies oil and other liquids through continuous operation. SmartSpray combines a belt conveyor, liquid applicator and tumbling drum with a fully-integrated control system, enabling processors to achieve consistent coating applications while reducing labor requirements and minimizing waste, said PPM Technologies.

“When a confectionery processor approached us for a coating system that could accommodate their product handling challenges, we adapted one of our most popular technologies — the FlavorWright All-in-One seasoning system — to address the confectionary industry’s unique needs,” said Jack Lee, Duravant Group president - food sorting and handling solutions. “We designed SmartSpray with a specialized belt conveyor for wet, sticky and hard-to-move confectionery products to ensure effective yet gentle handling while achieving accurate and reliable coating coverage. Our deep collaboration with customers, combined with our decades of expertise, enables us to deliver solutions that make a meaningful difference in our customers' operations.”

FlavorWright SmartSpray utilizes a continuous coating process that begins as product enters the tumbling drum via the belt conveyor. The adjustable liquid applicator creates controlled spray patterns for uniform coverage while preventing oversaturation, and the tumbling action ensures even distribution across all product surfaces, said PPM Technologies. Compared to batch coating methods done by hand, this fully automated, continuous process improves throughput while improving product quality, reducing labor and minimizing coating waste, said the company.

SmartSpray features recipe-driven operation with automated controls through a touchscreen HMI. The system offers control over production parameters, allowing processors to fine-tune both conveyor speed and drum angle to optimize dwell time based on each product’s specific characteristics.

PPM designed SmartSpray with interchangeable components, allowing processors to modify their system as their product lines evolve. Two drum sizes, available in plastic and stainless-steel construction, accommodate a variety of production capacities. Plastic drums feature seamless, FDA-approved construction with a non-stick finish to prevent product buildup and are interchangeable using PPM's EZ-swap magnetic technology.

Built with sanitation in mind, SmartSpray is equipped with NEMA 4X-rated components for washdown environments and food-grade stainless-steel construction throughout.

The system is typically installed after a depositor and before packaging. When needed, PPM can integrate SmartSpray with a downstream dry seasoning system to create a comprehensive seasoning and coating solution controlled through a single interface.