Efficiency and Precision in Melon and Pineapple Processing for Fresh-Cut

The fresh-cut segment continues to consolidate as one of the most dynamic categories in the horticultural sector. Fruits like melon and pineapple, highly appreciated by consumers, require precise peeling and cutting operations to deliver a uniform, safe, and attractive product.

In this context, PND makes available compact processing lines such as the PL1D peeler and the SS8 cutting machine. These solutions complete the processing cycle in a reduced space and with a limited number of operators, providing efficiency and versatility in handling tropical fruits for the fresh-cut market.

PL1D peeler: precision in fruit peeling

The PL1D is a semi-automatic peeler designed to process melons, pineapples, and butternut squash. Built entirely in stainless steel, the machine allows adjustment of both fruit rotation and peeling speed through frequency inverters, ensuring uniform results even with irregularly shaped fruits. Available in one, two, and four-station versions, its capacity ranges from 4 to 28 fruits per minute, equivalent to around 500 kg/h of finished product.

Its compact design —with a line length under seven meters— facilitates installation in small or medium-sized plants. In addition, it incorporates conveyors for product and waste, as well as inspection tables, enhancing efficiency and safety throughout the process.

SS8 cutting machine: versatility in slicing

After peeling, the fruit is processed by the SS8, a semi-automatic cutting machine that offers multiple slicing options: slices, wedges, strips, or sticks in different calibers, as well as the formats most in demand in fresh-cut, such as chunks and spears. The pad system automatically moves the product towards the cutters, so the operator only needs to load the fruit.

The SS8 stands out for its robustness, compact structure, and ease of cleaning. With a capacity of 40–50 fruits per minute, it includes an output conveyor that speeds up product collection and prepares it for subsequent packaging. All parts in contact with the fruit are food-grade certified, ensuring safe and high-quality processing. Moreover, the machine is easy to maintain and sanitize, reinforcing its value in demanding production environments.

An adaptable and efficient solution

The combination of the PL1D peeler and the SS8 cutting machine offers an especially attractive solution for companies looking to optimize space and resources. With minimal floor space requirements, the line needs only three operators and enables processors to supply the market with ready-to-eat melon and pineapple pieces in formats tailored to fresh-cut demand.

With more than two decades of experience and a strong international presence, PND continues to position itself as a technological partner of reference in fruit processing. Its catalog, which includes peelers, corers, cutting machines, and complete lines, provides versatile solutions adapted to the needs of the global horticultural industry.

About PND

Founded in 2000, PND is one of the leading manufacturers of fruit processing machinery, continually investing in innovation and specialising in advanced systems for the minimally processed, canning, frozen and dehydrated industries. Its portfolio includes solutions for a wide range of fruits such as citrus, pineapple, watermelon, strawberry, kiwi, lemon, mango, apple, pear, peach, cherry tomato, butternut squash, pumpkin and pomegranate.

The company provides tailored assistance with multilingual technicians and on-site support in regions including Europe, the United States, Mexico, Chile, Peru, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, India and the United Arab Emirates. From design to commissioning, PND ensures the presence of trained experts during installation and offers rapid spare parts delivery —within 24 hours of ordering— along with remote support. When issues cannot be resolved online or by phone, a specialist technician is dispatched within 48 hours, reinforcing the company’s commitment to efficiency and customer service.