Pistachio processing solutions

Pistachio sorting machine

Separate closed-shell pistachios from split nuts, remove stained, dark and broken shells, grade kernels by colour and eliminate foreign material. Proven on Turkish (Antep), Iranian and American pistachios.

SNT-YA series horizontal belt optical sorting machineSNT-YA · Horizontal belt sorter

Defects by product form

From in-shell nut to green kernel.

Closed-shell separation, shell stain and kernel colour are the key pistachio criteria. We define them together against your buyer's specification.

Pistachio forms

In-shell pistachio

  • Closed-shell (non-split) nut separation
  • Stained and discoloured shells
  • Broken shells and loose shell halves
  • Foreign material

Pistachio kernel

  • Colour grading by green tone
  • Dark and spotted kernels
  • Shell fragments
  • Foreign material

Broken kernels

  • Colour grading
  • Dark and damaged pieces
  • Shell and skin fragments
  • Foreign material

We sort Antep, Iranian, American and early-harvest green (pirinç) pistachios as well as broken kernels. Accept/reject limits are set together during the sample test.

Which defect, which technology?

Surface, colour and what's inside.

Closed shells and stains are visible; toxin risk and internal defects are not. We match the technology to the defect.

01

Deep learning

5K UHD+ cameras and a model trained on your product evaluate colour, shape and texture together, separating closed from split shells.

02

Smart LED lighting

Lighting tuned to the product removes reflection blind spots on glossy and matte shells.

03

UV for toxin risk

An optional UV light source available on the SNT-S series was developed to separate kernels carrying toxin (aflatoxin) risk.

04

X-ray

The YX series detects empty nuts and hidden stone, glass or metal by density analysis.

Recommended series

SNT-YA series for pistachios

SNT-YA is a horizontal belt optical sorter for dry, large-grain products including pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts.

Double-layer YAD models double cameras and ejectors in the same footprint. The right model and belt width are chosen after your sample test.

60–180 cmBelt width
0.5–4 t/hCapacity by model
Single / doubleYA and YAD layers
SNT-YA series horizontal belt optical sorting machine

Machine selection

We start from your product, then size the line.

In-shell pistachios and green kernels are sorted to very different criteria. Product form, origin, input quality and target capacity are evaluated together.

  • We define the product and the defects to remove on your sample.
  • We choose the technology and configuration for your target capacity.
  • We review sorting quality and good-product loss together during the test.

Capacity and sorting results depend on product type, moisture and input quality, and are confirmed with your sample before quotation.

Shelled nut kernels

FAQ

What to know before choosing.

Can closed-shell pistachios be separated?

Yes. Closed-shell (non-split) pistachios are separated from split nuts; stained shells, broken shells and foreign material can be removed in the same pass.

Can kernels be graded by colour?

Yes. Kernels can be graded by green tone in addition to defect removal. Grade limits are set with your sample.

Can aflatoxin-risk nuts be removed?

An optional UV light source available on the SNT-S series was developed to separate kernels carrying toxin (aflatoxin) risk. Its suitability for your product is evaluated in the sample test.

How does the sample test work?

We run your product on the machine and review together which defects are removed and how much good product is retained. Machine selection and quotation follow the test.

Let's test it together

Decide with your own pistachios.

Tell us your product, target capacity and the defects you need removed. We will get back to you to arrange a sample test.

Request a Sample Test