August 5, 2026 – WECO introduces the Multiscan MXV-Bulk X-ray inspection system for in-shell nut applications. The system analyzes density differences inside each nut to identify hidden quality defects and insufficient kernel fill, as well as dense foreign material (FM). By removing these from the product stream, the MXV-Bulk helps processors achieve higher product grades, increase per-pound value and reduce the need for manual inspection.
“Nut processors have traditionally relied on optical inspection methods that cannot tell them what is happening inside the shell. While X-ray is broadly used in food processing, this is the first system of its kind to evaluate the internal quality of in-shell nuts in North America,” said Nick Lightfoot, Vice President at WECO. “With the MXV-Bulk, we’ve seen customers nearly eliminate the need for end-of-line manual inspection while raising their average product grade several points. When processors are selling on kernel yield, that combination can produce a meaningful improvement to the bottom line.”
Ideal for inspecting pecans, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts and other nuts, the MXV-Bulk identifies and rejects a wide variety of product defects that show no obvious external signs including empty shells, insect damage and internal mold. It also removes FM including stones, glass, ceramics and embedded metal.
Nuts enter the system on a belt designed to stabilize and distribute product evenly for consistent scanning. The MXV-Bulk captures and analyzes images of each object as it passes through the inspection zone. When it identifies out-of-tolerance product or FM, it signals the air valves to eject the unwanted material.
MXV-Bulk complements optical sorting, aspiration and other separation methods on the line. Optical sorters identify external characteristics such as color, size, shape and surface condition, while aspiration separates material based primarily on weight and aerodynamic properties. X-ray inspection adds information about internal density, helping processors build a more complete quality-control strategy.
Designed for straightforward operation, the MXV-Bulk does not require a highly specialized operator to maintain consistent results. Operators set the density threshold directly on the touchscreen, defining the tolerance that determines how fully a nut must be filled to be accepted. The system can also evaluate fill within specific areas of each nut, allowing inspection to be configured for differences among varieties and quality targets.
MXV-Bulk was developed through close collaboration between WECO and Multiscan Technologies, both Duravant operating companies, by combining Multiscan’s X-ray technology with WECO’s nut-processing expertise. WECO leads Multiscan’s commercial and support activities in the Americas, while Multiscan serves as WECO’s lead in the EMIA region and beyond.
MXV-Bulk is available for sale worldwide and for lease in the United States, Mexico and Canada. WECO supports processors with installation and startup services, preventive maintenance, technology upgrades and 24/7 emergency assistance to help sustain inspection performance and production uptime throughout the life of the equipment.
About WECO
WECO has been designing, manufacturing and servicing optical and color electronic sorters for over 30 years and has thousands of units deployed worldwide. WECO products feature a design simplicity that results in cost-effective equipment and greater uptime for operators. WECO serves growers and processors in several fruit and nut processing sectors: tomato sorting on the harvester, walnut and pecan line sorting and drying, hops kiln moisture monitoring and small fruit sorting of blueberries, cranberries, olives, coffee cherries and wine grapes. For more information, visit www.wecotek.com.
About Duravant
Duravant is a global leader in advanced automation solutions operating across the food processing, packaging and material handling industries. Founded on more than a century of expertise, Duravant delivers performance-driven technologies, integrated systems and full lifecycle services that drive productivity, efficiency and safety for the world’s producers and movers of high demand goods. The company serves a broad range of essential end markets including food & beverage, agriculture, consumer and industrial goods, e-commerce and logistics. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, and serving customers in more than 190 countries, Duravant unites a portfolio of leading brands under a shared commitment to quality, innovation and customer success. For more information, visit www.duravant.com.
Buffy Hagerman
WECO
1311 Bluegrass Place
Woodland, CA 95776 USA
Tel: +1 509 540 7415
[email protected]
www.wecotek.com
Cat McBride
McBride Public Relations
527 27th Street
Richmond, CA 94804 USA
Tel: +1 650 384 5727
[email protected]
www.mcbridepr.com