Frequently asked
questions
About our technology, collaboration, and service
1. 1. Production & Process
What is compression popping/puffing technology?
Compression popping or puffing technology is an expansion technique for the production of healthy snacks. Through temperature and pressure, starchy grains and micropellets are expanded and shaped into airy, crispy base products for direct consumption.
What influences the machine’s output?
Output depends on the type of ingredient, the mold shape, and the desired texture and weight of the end product.
2. Ingredients & Variations
Which ingredients can I work with?
Our machines process starchy grains and/or micropellets. We cannot process powders, flour, or ingredients rich in sugar; we always require some form of granulate.
Inclusions such as dried legumes, seeds, and grains containing lower starch levels can be added to the ingredient mix. All ingredient mixes must be tested, as variations can occur between different varieties and harvests.
Can the products be coated or seasoned?
Yes. Puffed cakes, for example, can be coated with chocolate or slurries. Popped chips, on the other hand, can be sprayed with oil and seasoned in a seasoning drum.
Which shapes can I produce?
Round, square, mini, bar, or custom shapes, etc., depending on the mold shape. All geometric shapes are possible as long as they can be technically produced and the ingredients can be properly deposited into them.
How can the weight of the final product be adjusted?
The weight of the end product can be adjusted by changing the amount of ingredients fed per mold cavity. By varying the diameter of the feed plate bushings, the final product weight can be precisely controlled.
Can the texture of the final product be adjusted?
Yes. Incomec processors are equipped with proprietary software developed in-house, built on decades of experience in this niche technology.
All compression parameters can be precisely adjusted to achieve the desired texture.
Product weight also plays an important role: by fine-tuning both process parameters and product weight, producers can define the specific texture they want to bring to market.
3. Machines & line solutions
What is the difference between the CEREX and the PELLEX C+ processor?
The CEREX processor is designed to produce puffed cakes. These are flat (hockey-puck-shaped) products with a structure similar to polystyrene foam. These products are often stacked in their packaging. The PELLEX C+ processor is derived from the CEREX processor, but has been adapted to produce puffed crisps and snacks with a crisp texture. These products are usually wavy in shape to ensure the bag is filled effectively. Both machines use compression popping technology, but the compression mechanisms and functions differ in order to produce different end products.
What is the capacity of a line?
That depends on the type of ingredient, the type of end product, the weight per piece, and the number of processors in the line.
Feel free to contact us without obligation to determine your needs together.
What additional equipment is needed?
The processor forms the heart of the line, but for a complete process, you need additional equipment. Mixer/humidifiers and feeders prepare and dose the raw materials, conveyors transport the product, cleaning drums remove residual particles, and seasoning units apply flavor or coatings.
Are smaller or larger machines available?
We produce one machine size for industrial production, built according to a modular concept.
Customers who need higher capacity can simply add additional machines to the line. This makes our system suitable for both smaller and larger producers and allows it to grow in line with market demand.
4. Installation, service & maintenance
Does Incomec handle installation and training?
Yes. Every installation includes start-up, fine-tuning, and operator training.
If you have questions afterward, we’re always available for support.
What does your after-sales service include?
We provide worldwide support via email, phone, or on-site interventions when required.
Are spare parts kept in stock?
Yes. Original spare parts are available in our warehouse to minimize downtime.
Can older machines be overhauled or upgraded?
Yes. We carry out overhauls either in our workshop or on-site, depending on the scope of the work and the condition of the machines.
How are the machines cleaned?
Compression popping processes are dry production processes. Primary cleaning is done with compressed air. For cleaning the molds and removing any build-up, we supply specific tools with the machine.
5. Contact & next steps
Can I test my product idea with you?
Yes. On our test machines, we work together to validate recipes, shapes and parameters
using our CEREX and PELLEX C+ technology. This gives you an insight into the feasibility,
texture and output of your product in advance, before you invest in production.
How can I request a quote or demo?
Via the contact form or directly by emailing sales@incomec.be
Our Incomec© products are sold worldwide through wholesale distribution, serving customers across Europe, the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania.
Our machines are packaged and shipped with the utmost care, ensuring every customer can rely on smooth and worry-free delivery.