In sub-Saharan Africa, where climate change has exacerbated erratic rainfall, efficient resource management is vital for sustainable farming, says sensor and measuring instrument manufacturer VEGA, which supports such management processes through its advanced pressure and level sensors.

VEGA’s solutions help producers optimise their processes while reducing waste by monitoring water systems to ensure precise level measurement in packaging lines.

Particularly in tomato processing, efficient washing systems are critical to maintaining product quality.

After harvest, tomatoes are transported to washing basins, where they are moved along the line using water. To ensure effective cleaning, heavy contaminants such as stones and mud are separated while high-pressure air blowers complete the washing process.

The VEGAPULS C 11 radar sensor is ideal for monitoring water levels in washing lines. Its non-contact design provides precise and reliable level measurement, even in turbulent or frothy water conditions.

Specifically engineered for simple applications, the sensor helps to ensure a steady flow of water to maintain consistent washing performance. Additionally, its robust design and easy installation make it a cost-effective and user-friendly solution.

Another essential process in tomato production is thermal sterilisation, particularly for concentrates, pulp and juice.

In a plate heat exchanger, tomatoes are heated to about 85 °C to eliminate germs before being cooled for further processing. Precise pressure monitoring helps ensure that the process operates seamlessly.

The VEGABAR 83 is best suited for this sterilisation application. Equipped with a metallic measuring cell, the sensor delivers reliable performance under high pressures and vacuum conditions.

Its compatibility with clean-in-place procedures makes it ideal for food production environments, where exposure to aggressive cleaning agents and high temperatures is routine.

The VEGABAR 83 helps ensure the efficient separation of media streams, reducing energy consumption through reliable heat recovery while providing seamless connectivity through an input/output link, making it a dependable and economical choice for modern production facilities.

“VEGA’s advanced pressure and level measurement solutions are transforming tomato production by improving process efficiency and reliability,” the company avers.

Additionally, by employing sensors, such as the VEGAPULS C 11 and VEGABAR 83, farmers and agri-processors can ensure consistent quality, reduce waste and enhance productivity.

“By embracing these technologies, the agricultural sector can move toward a smarter, more sustainable future.”

VEGA says the integration of its robust, low-maintenance solutions helps farmers and producers achieve better control over their operations, reduce costs and contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices.