MANHATTAN, KANSAS, US — Kansas State University professors visited Alapala’s manufacturing plant and its recently launched Academy and Innovation Center in early January.

KSU participants included Gordon Smith, head of the Grain Science and Industry Department; Hüseyin Doğan, professor of practice; and Jason Watt, milling instructor.

During their visit, the KSU team experienced Alapala’s highly automated machine manufacturing technologies, including laser cutting, robotic bending and welding, and automated painting systems.

At the Academy and Innovation Center, who’s mission is to provide training opportunities for milling industry professionals worldwide, the KSU team observed a trial production and wheat breaking tests. The KSU and Alapala teams had an opportunity to discuss the technical findings and share information about the grain milling process.

The KSU team was also able to observe first-hand the laboratory type roller mills that were produced specially for their teaching needs and will be used in the Grain Science and Industry Department’s Shellenberger laboratory for milling tests.

In their limited spare time, the team also had an opportunity to see some historical places (Alacahoyuk ve Hattusa archaeological sites) in Corum city, Turkey.