What is the process of sorting?

The process of sorting involves separating items based on specific criteria, such as size, color, shape, or material. Sorting can be manual or automated, depending on the industry and the type of items being processed. Here’s a general overview of the sorting process:

1. Feeding
Items are fed into the sorting machine or system, often through a conveyor belt or other transport mechanism.
2. Inspection/Detection
The sorting equipment inspects each item using various sensors, cameras, or scanners. These can include:
Optical sensors (for color, shape, or texture)
X-Ray or infrared sensors (to detect foreign objects or internal defects)
Metal detectors (for unwanted metal contamination)
3. Classification
Based on the inspection, the system classifies the items into different categories according to predefined criteria, such as quality, size, or defects. This step often relies on software algorithms to process the sensor data.
4. Sorting Mechanism
After classification, the machine directs the items to different paths, containers, or conveyors. This can be done using:
Air jets (to blow items into different bins)
Mechanical gates or flaps (to direct items into various channels)
5. Collection and Further Processing
Sorted items are collected in separate bins or conveyors for further processing or packaging, depending on the desired outcome. Defective or unwanted items may be discarded or reprocessed.

Techik’s Approach to Sorting
Techik utilizes advanced technologies like multi-spectrum, multi-energy, and multi-sensor sorting to enhance accuracy. For example, in the chili and coffee industries, Techik’s color sorters, X-Ray machines and metal detectors are employed to remove foreign materials, sort by color, and ensure quality standards are met. From field to table, Techik provides whole chain sorting, grading and inspection solution from raw material, processing to packaged products.

This sorting process is applied in various industries, including food safety, waste management, recycling, and more.