Optical Sorting Caretaker Grading featuring TOMRA 3A
NEW CARETAKER GRADER Transforming intake operations with advanced sorting FOR USA GROWER
Tong Engineering recently delivered an advanced optical sorting Caretaker Grader to Sterman Masser Inc. in the USA. The installation represents a significant upgrade to the company’s potato handling and grading operation, enhancing throughput, reducing manual labour requirements, and improving grading accuracy. By integrating modern optical sorting technology, the system ensures consistently high product quality while increasing operational efficiency.
Redefining Potato Handling in the USA
As production volumes increased and quality expectations tightened, Sterman Masser sought a more intelligent approach to crop handling. Key priorities included:
- Reducing manual handling and associated crop damage
- Improving sorting accuracy and consistency
- Minimising waste across the processing cycle
- Protecting crop quality from field through to wash plant
Tong Engineering delivered a tailored system centered around a high-performance Caretaker, integrated with a TOMRA optical sorter. This innovative setup enables real-time cleaning and grading directly at the intake stage.
By sorting potatoes immediately and directing them straight into box storage, the system eliminates unnecessary handling steps and streamlines the entire process before washing even begins.
Intelligent sorting in action
- Seamless integration of optical sorting within the Caretaker
- Direct-to-storage capability to reduce handling stages
- Gentle crop flow design to preserve potato quality
The new installation has delivered measurable improvements across Sterman Masser’s operation:
- Reduced Handling: Fewer transfer points mean less risk of damage and improved efficiency
- Lower Waste: Early-stage sorting removes defects sooner, reducing downstream losses
- Enhanced Quality Control: Optical technology ensures consistent grading accuracy
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlined workflow reduces labour and processing time
David Masser at Sterman Masser Inc:
“Thanks to Tong Engineering for working with us on our new installation. For growers looking for smarter potato crop-handling solutions, Tong is a partner worth talking to. We’ve invested in a new Tong Fieldloader with integrated TOMRA Food optical sorting. By cleaning and sorting directly into our box storages, we reduce handling, cut waste, and protect potato quality before it ever reaches our wash plant. Technology like this helps us care better for what we grow and deliver a consistent product to our customers”
This collaboration highlights how growers like Sterman Masser are leveraging advanced handling and sorting technology to future-proof their operations. Tong’s integrated solutions not only improve efficiency but also elevate product quality, delivering smarter systems and stronger partnerships from field to pack.
Watch the Caretaker Grader in action at Sterman Masser here ———>