Vision rice color sorter

Types of vision rice color sorters

Generally, there are two main types of vision rice color sorters:

• CCD Color Sorters:

Sorters based on Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) technology usually have various small cameras used for wide surveillance. These cameras capture images of the rice being sorted in real time. Then, a computer system analyzes the uploaded image data to identify undesired materials based on color, shape, and size features. After that, the sorter directs the rejected materials to separate them. Finally, only the wanted rice is left for collection. CCD-based color sorters are capable of detecting even small color variations and are highly accurate and efficient.

Specifications & Maintenance

• Capacity:

  The volume of rice a sorter can process in a given time range. It can be shown as tons per hour or kg per hour. For example, a color sorter machine with 2t/h might be used in a big factory because it can sort a large amount of rice every hour. Smaller machines might have 300kg/h to 1,000kg/h, which is better for small to medium-size businesses.

• Sort Channels:

  This refers to the number of paths or ways the rice can be put after being sorted by color. Each channel is like a roadway for a certain type of rice or unwanted material. Some machines have only ten channels, while others may have 24 or more. The machine with over 24 channels will be able to separate rice of different colors and qualities much faster, which is good for very busy factories that need to sort rice quickly. In contrast, a machine with 10 channels may work well for businesses that do not need to sort so much rice in a day.

• Sensor:

  The devices that feel or pick up the rice's colors and other qualities are called sensors. Different machines might use various kinds of sensors to detect color changes in rice. For example, some sorters might use near-infrared (NIR) sensors, while others depend on RGB cameras. The choice of sensor can impact how exactly and quickly the rice is classified. A machine using advanced NIR sensors may classify rice with even greater accuracy than one using basic RGB cameras.

• Working Air:

  How much compressed air the machine needs to work well, measured in cubic meters per hour (m3/h), is what this means. Color sorting machines use compressed air to help blow out faulty rice grains like husks or unripe rice. Larger machines needing 1,500 m3/h of compressed air will be suitable for high-volume production lines. In contrast, smaller sorts that need only 300 m3/h could be used in smaller setups where less rice needs to be processed each day.

• Detection Method:

  How the rice is looked at and sorted is what this means. It includes whether the sorter uses camera-based views, laser scans, or a mix of both. Some vision rice color sorters rely solely on camera technology to identify various shades and hues, while others incorporate laser scanning for a more thorough examination. Machines that use a fusion of both camera and laser scrutiny might offer a more precise classification than those that depend solely on a camera. For example, a machine that uses both cameras and lasers might discern a wider range of rice colors and issues, ensuring a superior rice product.

To keep the rice color sorter working well and lasting a long time, it's essential to follow some regular maintenance work. The first step is to clean the machine regularly. This means getting rid of any leftover rice or dirt after sorting. It helps stop any build-up that could harm how well the device sorts. Next, regular washing of the work tables and chutes is important to prevent blockages and maintain smooth rice movement through the sorter. It is also essential to check the air compressor often. Checking the hoses, valves, and pump of the air supplier helps the machine get all the compressed air it needs to work properly. Bulb replacement should also be done at regular intervals. The clarification is done by testing a few rice samples and changing the bulbs only if the results are not satisfactory.

Uses of Vision Rice Color Sorters

The uses of the vision rice sorter are not limited to rice alone. It can also sort different types of grains, nuts, dried food, and deformities. Some industries make use of this sorter in the following ways:

• Oily Peanut Sorting: The vision peanut color sorter machine can sort peanuts that have oil on them. Oily peanuts can be sorterd out to avoid damaging the sorter machine's processing system.
• Sorting of Color Defects: The sorter can identify and remove peanuts with color defects like the non-edible green and black moldy peanuts, discolored peanuts, and rotten peanuts. It works by accurately detecting the different colors and efficiently removing them from the good peanuts.
• Foreign Material Removal: The color sorter machine can also identify and remove different types of foreign materials such as stones, plastic, and metal fragments. These are harmful contaminants that can have harmful effects on human health when ingested.
• Bad Quality Food Removal: The vision sorter also has the capacity to identify and remove bad-quality foods such as spoiled, discolored, or damaged peanut kernels. Sorting these bad peanuts helps to improve the overall quality of the processed product.
• Nuts Sorting: The sorter is capable of sorting different types of nuts such as almond nuts, walnuts, cashew nuts, and hazelnuts, among others. It sorts out rotten nuts, immature ones, and different kinds of contaminants such as shells, stones, and debris.
• Grains Sorting: By detecting color variations, the rice color sorter machine is able to accurately separate good grains from spoilt ones, impurities, and other foreign materials. It is important for the machine's operation to be precise because the public's health is at stake.
• Vegetable and Dried Fruit Sorting: The sorter can also be used to sort dried fruits and vegetables. It can separate out unwanted color, spoiled, and decayed produce, as well as add non-vegetable and contaminants.
• Industrial Food Processing: The vision sorter is widely used in industrial food processing systems to achieve high-capacity sorting of colored grains, vegetables, and fruit, along with foreign object detection. It is commonly used in the production lines of factories that process food.

How to Choose a Vision Rice Color Sorter

In order to choose an ideal color sorter machine for rice, buyers should consider a few essential factors.

• Assess Food Processing Needs

Buyers should analyze their food processing needs. It includes the type of food to process, the volume, and the desired level of sorting accuracy. Also, they should consider the required sorting capacity and speed corresponding to their food processing volume.

• Evaluate Technical Specifications

Business buyers should ensure the color sorter machine has powerful sorting algorithms and high-resolution cameras (at least 2000 pixel). Additionally, a robust data processing unit is also necessary for achieving precise sorting results. Buyers should also consider the machine's sorting accuracy and efficiency.

Focus on the machine's design and build quality to ensure durability and reliability in demanding food processing environments. It would be better if buyers choose the sorter with anti-vibration and dust-proof systems to avoid environmental impact and achieve stable performance.

• Consider User-Friendly Features

Choose a color sorter machine with an intuitive interface and easy-to-operate controls among a wide variety of sorters. In addition, sorters with automated functions reduce manual intervention and streamline the sorting process.

• Examine Integration and Compatibility

Buyers should ensure that the machine is capable of integrating with their existing food processing lines and equipment. Also, it should be compatible with other components to create a cohesive and efficient food processing system.

Business buyers should ensure that the sorter chosen has been properly complied with food-grade standards. In addition, the machine has been passed relevant certifications to ensure hygiene and safety compliance.

Vision rice color sorter FAQ

Q1: What is the function of a rice sorter?

A1: The main function of a rice sorter is to separate rice grains based on specific criteria such as color, size, and shape. In doing so, it enhances the overall quality of the rice that is subsequently packaged and distributed to consumers.

Q2: Can a color sorter be cleaned?

A2: Cleaning the sorter, especially after processing products like coffee or nuts, is imperative. Such items often leave residues, potentially impacting performance over time. Conducting a daily rinse can significantly enhance the machine's functionality and prolong its lifespan.

Q3: What is the latest technology in rice sorting?

A3: Opto-electronics and automation are the current trends in rice sorting technologies. Modern rice sorters utilize sophisticated optical sensors and electronic controls to identify and eliminate discolored or imperfect grains with high precision.

Q4: How does the color sorter work?

A4: The color sorting machine operates in several stages. Firstly, the product to be sorted is fed into the machine. Then, it is scanned by high-resolution cameras that detect color variations. Thereafter, the identified undesired colors are marked by a labeling system. Finally, the ejection system removed the marked products and only the desired ones remain.