Grains sorting machine

Types of grains sorting machines

The process of separating grains by size, shape, color, and quality is made possible by various types of sorting machines. Some of them are as follows:

• Sieves: The most basic kind of grain sorting machine is sieves. They are used to divide grains based on size. Generally, they are woven mesh frames that allow small particles to pass through while retaining larger ones. Sieve designs are typically based on the crops they are intended to screen.
• Optical Sorters: Advanced grain sorting machines called optical sorters can identify grain color variations, defects, and foreign objects through camera imaging systems and artificial intelligence algorithms. They then let through good-quality grains and reject the bad ones by firing jets of air at the grains. Optical sorters can be used to sort grains like rice, wheat, and pulses. They provide high-accuracy sorting capability, but their prices are relatively high compared to other types of grain sorting machines.
• Gravity Separators: Grain density is used by gravity separators to distinguish between grains of different weights and remove trash. Heavier materials fall through the decks first, while lighter ones pass through later. Gravity separators are beneficial in sorting seeds, beans, and grains such as coffee, wheat, and rice.
• Color Sorters: Grain color is used to distinguish grains using color sorters. Worn-out, discolored, or contaminated grains are removed using them. Additionally, they can be used to distinguish between grains of various colors. For instance, in rice processing, color sorters can separate red and yellow rice from white rice. Furthermore, they can distinguish between whole grains and those that have been shattered, thus enhancing the quality of the final product.
• Magnetic Separators: Magnetic separators detect pieces of metallic contaminants in grains, such as nails, wires, and clips. They work by using magnets that attract and separate the grains from the metallic objects. Grain processors often use them to avoid damage from magnetic materials or protect downstream equipment.
• Hoppers and Chutes: Grains can be sorted based on weight using hoppers and chutes. The chute's angle determines the weight of the object falling or passing through it. Light grains are sorted out, and heavy ones are retained. Although hoppers and chutes cannot be used to sort grains with different weights exclusively, they can be used to differentiate grains with different sizes, shapes, and densities.

When choosing a sorting machine, buyers should consider the grain type, desired sorting accuracy, capacity requirements, available budget, and space for the sorting machinery. They can also opt for a combination of sorting machines to achieve more effective sorting results. For example, combining a color sorter with an optical sorter can provide better sorting accuracy for certain grain types.

Specifications & Maintenance

• Processing Capacity:

  The food sorting machine's processing capacity is represented in tons per day. It depends on the ability of the specific model and sorting speed. That can range from a few tons to over ten tons for large-scale machines per day.

• Grain Cleaning Rate:

  This is the percentage of foreign materials (like broken grains, stems, dust, and other impurities) that the machine can successfully remove during the sorting process. A higher cleaning rate represents better efficiency. The rate generally resides between 90% and 99%.

• Operating Power Source:

  Grain sorting machines typically use electricity as their working power source. However, some models may operate on fuel-powered generators or tractors.

• Main Material:

  The main materials of grain sorting machines include cast iron, stainless steel, and alloy aluminum. Choosing the right materials ensures machines' durability, stability, and efficiency throughout various grain-sorting tasks.

• Vibration Frequency/Speed:

  A grain separator machine usually has a modification capability, with the sorting frequency or speed being a primary adjustment. This varies among different models. But it generally ranges from 100 to 200 times per minute. Some have vibrating decks with speed regulating from 0 to 1,000 mm.

• Machine Dimensions:

  LXWXH- This model's dimensions determine the machine's size and weight. That eventually affects how it can be installed and used at sorting facilities.

• Optical Sorting Technology:

  Some advanced grain sorting machines use optical sorts that rely on artificial intelligence cameras to distinguish between different colors and shades.

• An air classifier:

  This machine uses air streams to separate grains according to their weight and size. It can be combined with a vibratory feeder. The classifier is efficient in processing large volumes of grains.

Proper maintenance is essential for sorting machines to function smoothly over a long time. Here are the usual maintenance methods for grain sorting machines:

• Regular Cleaning:

  It's critical to regularly clean the machine's surface, workbench, and feed port to prevent grain blockages caused by residual impurities. Use a soft brush or a dry towel to clean the sorting table and other parts.

• Lubrication:

  Lubricate the moving parts of the grain sorting machine, such as bearings and chains, at regular intervals. Relubricate them when the lubricating oil is exhausted to ensure smooth operation and longevity.

• Periodic Inspection:

  Users should check the critical components of the sorting machine regularly, such as belts, vibrating motors, bearings, and others. Look for any signs of damage, looseness, or wear. Users should adjust, repair, or replace the parts accordingly.

Scenarios where grains sorting machines are useful

The grains sorting machine has varied useful applications across different industries.

• Food processing industry

  Grain sorting machines are fundamental instruments in the food industry. They perform food grain selection and separation in grain milling factories, ensuring the quality of processed foods. Additionally, these machines play a vital role in the sorting of other food materials, including nuts, beans, and seeds, further enhancing the overall product quality.

• Farming sector

  Agricultural producers frequently use grain sorting machines to choose and inspect grain crops such as rice, wheat, corn, barley, and beans. By discarding grains that are discolored, damaged, rotten, or infested with pests, these machines assist farmers in boosting the quality of their harvests. Consequently, the sorted and verified grains also contribute to easy cooking and better health for end-users.

• Import and export trade

  Grain sorting machines are crucial tools at customs and border entry points. The machines facilitate the inspection and sorting of grains that are either imported or exported, and they assist authorities in ensuring compliance with quality standards.

• Research and laboratories

  Grain sorting machines find significant applications in research institutions and laboratories. The machines assist scientists and researchers in selecting pure grain samples for various studies, experiments, and genetic research. As a result, the findings contribute to improved grain characteristics and enhanced agricultural practices.

• Feed manufacturing industry

  Grain sorting machines are not limited to the food processing industry. They are valuable in the feed manufacturing sector as well. The machines help in sorting grains and other raw materials to ensure the quality and purity of animal feeds. Consequently, this promotes animal health and growth.

• Quality control laboratories

  Grain sorting machines assist the quality control labs in testing and analyzing grain samples. The labs use the machines to separate grains based on color, size, shape, and other various parameters. Subsequently, this provides precise data for quality assessment and grading.

How to choose grains sorting machine

Grain quality is paramount in the processing of various grains into final food products, which is why it is essential to produce grain inspection and sorting machines that function correctly and help achieve the desired quality of food products. When considering a grain sorting machine for sale, it is ample to look at specific features of the machine that can aid grain quality control and achieve quality food standards.

• Technology used by the machine:

An ideal grain sorting machine uses optical sorting technology. It has a spectral imaging system that can identify impurities based on color, size, shape, and even internal qualities. Advanced features such as precision focusing, multichannel imaging, and intelligent algorithms can also be present.

• Grain types the machine can sort:

A grain sorter machine sorts various grain types, from rice, wheat, and millet to coffee and sesame. Each crop has distinct characteristics, such as size, shape, and color. The machine's adjustable parameters and sorting mechanisms are calibrated to sort these grains precisely.

• Machine capacity:

According to the grain feeding speed, sorting accuracy, and capacity, a grain sorting machine can have different capacities. Industrial-scale facilities typically require sorters with higher throughput to meet production demands. In contrast, smaller-scale operations may suffice with sorters that have a lower capacity but still maintain effective sorting performance.

• Dimensions:

An overall dimension of a grain sorting machine is its length, depth, and height. It's a crucial aspect because it determines how much floor space the machine will use within a facility. With many processing plants looking to maximize on wasted space, the dimensions of the sorting machine matter because it has to fit well within the existing setup without causing significant disruptions to the workflow.

• Operator interface:

An operator grain sorting machine has a user interface where the operators can efficiently set the parameters for sorting. The interface is usually intuitive, and there is a display screen, and the job of the sorting task can be well shown here. The interface has to be straightforward and user friendly, so the operations can be carried out swiftly.

Q&A

Q1: What are the recent trends in grain sorting technology?

A1: Recent trends in sorting technologies include AI and deep learning algorithms for improved precision. Automated, self-learning systems are also trending, along with multispectral imaging which combines various types of imaging for a more comprehensive analysis. Remote access and cloud-based data storage systems are providing more opportunities for sifting businesses to analyze and sort grain from anywhere, while automated sorting is giving companies the ability to process larger amounts of product with more efficiency.

Q2: How much maintenance does a grain sorter require?

A2: Routine maintenance for sorters includes periodic inspections to make sure everything is working properly, especially belts and sensors. Calibration will need to be done to maintain optimal sorting parameters. The system will need to be cleaned to avoid any clogs that could affect the outcome of the sorting process. Sorters are usually made to be maintained quickly and efficiently, and like any machinery, the key to optimal performance is regular maintenance.

Q3: What is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern grain sorting machines?

A3: AI plays a significant role in improving the accuracy and efficiency of grain sorting machines by enabling predictive maintenance, optimizing sorting algorithms, enhancing image analysis capabilities, and facilitating automated decision-making. AI-powered grain sorting machines can learn from large datasets, adapt to varying grain conditions, and continuously refine their sorting parameters for better results.

Q4: Can a grain sorting machine be integrated into an existing processing line?

A4: Yes, grain sorting machines are customarily made to be able to integrate into existing processing lines. Developers and manufacturers will work with clients to ensure that the grain sorting machine will fit into the processing line where it is currently being used. Automated Sorting systems are stand-alone machines that are usually made fast to sort and be installed into any existing processing and production line.