Earlier this year, Milbor PMC unveiled its new optical blueberry sorter, the MXM BN.2. Fruit Attraction 2026 was another event where the machine was presented and grabbed the attention of visitors. What makes MXM BN.2 different than other sorting equipment?
Facing real problems of growers and packers
Known for integrating tailor-made fruit packing lines, Milbor PMC decided to build its own blueberry sorter. “Working with growers and packing companies every day, we know their challenges well. Sorting issues were among the complaints we heard most often from long-standing partners. That is why we created the MXM BN.2 blueberry sorting machine,” explains Maciej Chmielewski from Milbor PMC.
Who is the machine for?
According to the producer, the MXM BN.2 can serve as the only sorter on a line, as a pre-sorter for machine-harvested fruit, or as a complement to an existing grader; therefore there are various types of clients that might be interested; blueberry trading businesses, companies managing large-scale plantations, and blueberry growers.
“Different clients value different aspects of our sorter. Personally, the throughput-to-footprint ratio and Adaptive Soft Detection (ASD) are the features that make the biggest difference for our clients. The MXM BN.2 can sort up to 3 tonnes of blueberries per hour, on a footprint of about 3 m². ASD analyses sorting batches and automatically adjusts the rejection threshold for soft fruit. This feature reduces downtime for adjustments and the risk of operator error,” adds Chmielewski.
Precious time
In a short season, downtime hits margins directly, and every stoppage hurts. “Time-saving solutions were at the top of priorities for our engineers. Most potential issues with the MXM BN.2 can be diagnosed and resolved remotely, which significantly cuts downtime and thus improves operational efficiency at the packing facility. Thanks to its open frame, the sorter can be cleaned in 20 minutes” – says Chmielewski.
Optical technology sees berries from both sides
The machine can sort blueberries by three criteria: size, colour and softness. To provide this, the MXM BN.2 uses two 2K cameras scanning each berry from above and below at the same time.
Gentle treatment
Retailers expect firm blueberries with their natural bloom intact, which makes gentle handling essential. “The MXM BN.2 carries fruit on a flexible belt without rotation, with a minimal total drop. Because the fruit does not rotate, our sorter protects the natural bloom of blueberries. Additionally, soft padding reduces total impact affecting a fruit while it goes through the MXM BN.2,” Chmielewski clarifies.
If you are interested in more details regarding the sorter, feel free to reach out to Maciej.
For more information:
Maciej Chmielewski
Milbor PMC
Tel: +48 538 359 172
m.chmielewski@milbor.pl
www.milborpmc.com
