Automatic shrimp cracker fryers (Prawn Cracker machines) are designed to handle the extreme puffing that occurs when dried shrimp pellets hit hot oil. Since shrimp crackers can expand up to 3–4 times their original size in just 10–15 seconds, the machine must manage high buoyancy and rapid throughput.

1. Frying Dynamics: The "Flash-Puff"

Shrimp crackers (Krupuk) require a unique frying environment compared to other snacks:

• High Buoyancy: Once they puff, they become very light and float. An automatic Submerger (Double-Layer) Belt is essential to keep them underwater so they don't stay raw on one side.¹
• Extreme Expansion: The machine needs a deep frying "well" and wide conveyors to prevent the rapidly expanding crackers from jamming the line.
• High-Speed Residence: Frying usually takes only 10–20 seconds. The conveyor speed must be high and adjustable via VFD (Variable Frequency Drive).

2. Types of Automatic Shrimp Cracker Fryers

A. Continuous Conveyor Fryer (Industrial Scale)

This is the standard for mass production (e.g., 200 kg/hr to 1,000 kg/hr).

• Double Mesh Belt: Prevents the crackers from floating and ensures even heat distribution.²
• Automatic Slag Removal: Starch-based snacks shed "fines" (tiny crumbs). A bottom scraper continuously removes these to keep the oil from turning dark.
• Oil Circulation: Keeps the temperature absolutely stable at 180°C–190°C, even when cold dried slices are fed in at high speeds.

B. Automatic Circular Batch Fryer (Medium Scale)

Ideal for smaller factories or catering.

• Pneumatic Lift & Tilt: Once the puffing cycle is done, the basket automatically lifts and tilts to dump the crackers onto a cooling tray.
• Auto-Stirrer: A motorized arm rotates the crackers during the puffing phase to prevent them from "nesting" or sticking together.

3. Technical Specifications