Baza danych projektów PROW
Modernisation of an Almond Blanching Plant
Summary
A company producing nuts invested in a new steam boiler that contributes to a more efficient production with limited generation of waste (re-use of almond shells and skins for biomass) and environmental protection (through the use of biomass as fuel)
Background
Frusecs (Frutos Secos de Castellón) is a nut producing company that was set up by a group of entrepreneurs dedicated to the dried fruit sector in the Valencia region. Frusecs is composed of a cooperative, a production and a marketing company and therefore manages the full production cycle of the almond, from the field to the finished product, ensuring full traceability.
Objective
The main objective was to invest in a steam boiler for the blanching of almonds, that utilised almond sub-products (almond shells, skins) as a fuel. The overarching objective for the company was to become more efficient through the use of modern technology and the utilisation of the whole product (the nut as well as its sub-products). In this way, any waste (or residuals) produced in terms of shells or skins, is re-used as fuel.
Main activities
The main activity carried out through this project was the installation of a new steam boiler for the blanching of almonds. The boiler utilises as fuel the biomass generated by almond shells. Subsequently the boiler is used for the blanching process consisting of the almond kernel blanching to produce different finished products: whole almond, grain of different sizes, almond flour, plates and rods.
Results & Benefits
The investment has led to a more efficient process for almond blanching with the use of a high technology steam boiler. It allows the use of all almond sub-products so that no or limited waste is generated. There are also environmental benefits since boiler operates with biomass generated from almond shells and skins. The success of the investment has triggered new ideas for further efficiency improvements to the boiler (e.g. allowing the use of skins and sewage sludge for steam generation).
Lessons learnt
Efficiency improvements and environmental protection are compatible approaches. New investments in modern and environmentally friendly technology contribute to a more efficient production and enable electricity generation through the use of the steam boiler.
Project location and other information
El Maestraszgo, Castellón.
Region
Valencia
RDP Territory
Comunidad Valenciana
Total project cost (€)
1 304 427
EAFRD contribution (€)
52 177
National contribution (€)
208 708
Private contribution (€)
1 043 542
Project website
Contact name
Gaspar Alapont Martinez, Helias Gimeno
Telephone
+34 964 33 11 11, +34 964 50 32 50
Languages for contact
Spanish
At a glance
Country
Spain
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers, Producer groups
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
15/02/2010
End Date:
31/10/2010
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings
Keywords:
Biomass, Reuse, Infrastructure, Modernisation, Environmental technology
Last update
16/05/2012