Netzsch Fine Particle Technology LLC unveiled a new way to create signature confections during the recent Process Expo in Chicago. Headquartered in Exton, PA, Netzsch displayed a working model of its ChocoEasy 50 chocolate-making system, which promises to give confectioners complete control of the process and eliminate their dependence on suppliers of bulk chocolate. The system combines mixing, refining, and dry conch into a single step. It also has a built-in, heated, filtered forced air system to speed up the conching process, where tannic acid in the cocoa mass is oxidized to bring out full flavor development. An integrated agitator bead mill performs the fine grinding simultaneously with the wet conch to produce chocolate with the desired fine-particle distribution and quality. The process also promises to reduce raw material and processing costs — factors that can increase a chocolatier's competitive edge. Six models are available and offer the ability to produce batch sizes from 60 to more than 13,000 pounds in as little as 12 hours per batch. ChocoEasy's closed system design prevents contamination, reduces energy and water costs, and preserves reproducibility and process control standards.