(695 products available)
A sweet corn sheller refers to a type of agricultural machine that is used to remove kernels from corn cobs. There are different types of corn shellers available that are widely used in various farming communities around the world.
Manual corn sheller:
A manual corn sheller is a small, handheld device usually used for removing corn kernels from cobs. It is made of two metal plates, with one having a series of notches that fit over the cob of corn, and the other being a flat plate. To use this sheller, one has to place the corn cob in the notched plate of the sheller and then apply a downward force so that the corn kernels are stripped off of the cob. Manual corn shellers are usually affordable, used for small-scale operations, and can be used as emergency tools.
Pedal-operated corn sheller:
Pedal-operated corn shellers are shellers that are operated by pedals. They are often designed to be used in low-power applications, and they may feature a scrapping method to extract corn kernels. Like other corn shellers, pedal-operated corn shellers are specifically designed to accommodate various corn cob sizes. This corn sheller type is usually easy to use, and its operation is simple and straightforward. It is also known to be cost-effective, and it helps to reduce the time and energy spent on corn kernel extraction.
Power-driven corn sheller:
A power-driven corn sheller is a sheller machine that is rotated by an electric motor or gas engine. It is generally used for removing kernels from large volumes of corn cobs quickly. The design of power-driven corn shellers is usually more sophisticated than that of manual corn shellers, and they may include more features for improved efficiency and precision. In some cases, power-driven corn shellers may even be integrated with other agricultural tools like grain cleaners and threshers.
Portable corn sheller:
A portable corn sheller is a device that is used for removing corn kernels from cobs on the go. This type of corn sheller is easy to use and carry around, which offers flexibility and convenience when shelling corn from different locations. Portable corn shellers are often used by small-scale farmers or home cooks who want to shell small amounts of corn. Some portable corn shellers are even battery-powered for extra convenience.
The corn cob remover is available in manual and automatic models. Manual corn shellers are lightweight, compact, and portable. They are produced using rust-proof materials and can be shelved when not in use. The hand-held models have a curved blade that is ergonomically designed to remove kernels efficiently. On average, manual shellers can remove corn from 10 to 50 cobs per hour, depending on the user's skill and speed.
Sweet corn sheller machines are more efficient than manual models. They can remove corn from thousands of cobs in one hour. Automatic shellers are available in three main types: tabletop, standing, and mobile. Tabletop models have a flat base and are bolted down to stable surfaces. They take in cobs of about 30 to 120 cm in length, with 30 to 120 cm being the average kernel-extracting area. The standing models have a stand-alone design, and operators feed the corn cobs from the top. Some standing shellers have wheels for better mobility. Most automatic sweet corn shellers for sale have a hopper that holds 15 to 30 kg of corn cobs, which are extracted within a short time. The hopper's height varies from 3 to 5 feet, allowing the operator or user to comfortably feed the corn cobs.
Corn shelling machines can operate using electricity or manual power. Manual power machines use a rotating crank that is powered by a belt. The electric models have a sturdy motor that provides the required energy to extract kernels automatically. Generally, electric corn shellers work faster than their manually-powered counterparts. Depending on the type and model, shellers can extract corn at a speed of 50 to 20,000 kernels per minute. Their motors range from 0.5 to 3.5 horsepower (HP).
To maintain safety, users should always ensure that the corn is well-dried and moderately aged before shelling. Over-aged corn can be difficult to shell, while immature corn can damage the machine's blade.
Routine inspection and cleaning of a corn sheller machine will prevent clogging, mechanical failure, and injuries. Manufacturers advise inspecting the belt for cracks, loosening parts, and damage.
Cleaning the machine to remove debris and dirt after shelling is vital. All removable parts should be cleaned, including the hopper and conveyor. When cleaning, operators should wear protective gloves and ensure that the machine is switched off.
Lubrication of moving parts will prevent wear and tear. All removable parts, including chains, belts, and lobes, should be coated with oil or grease. Shellers should be covered when not in use to keep them free from dust. These maintenance and care tips can help extend the shelling machine's lifespan and keep them in excellent condition.
A corn sheller is applicable in various settings mainly around farms and agricultural sectors. Here are some of the use scenarios of a corn sheller.
Agricultural farms
Corn shellers are widely used on agricultural farms for harvesting and shelling purposes. During the harvesting period, shelled corn creates a suitable environment for further processing, storage, and transportation. Corn shellers also reduce the labor-intensive task of manually removing corn from the cobs, thus increasing efficiency on agricultural farms.
Livestock farms
On livestock farms, corn grains serve as feed for animals such as cattle, goats, and pigs. Corn shellers facilitate the production of shelled corn, which can be used directly or after processing for various livestock feeding alternatives. Corn shellers meet the needs of livestock farms for corn feed, ensuring sufficient nutrition for the animals.
Food processing industry
In the food processing industry, corn is a staple raw material used to make various products such as corn flour, corn oil, popcorn, and more. Corn shellers help process large quantities of corn into shelled corn, providing an essential raw material for the industry. Corn shellers also support the development and production of different food processing techniques, improving the quality and efficiency of food production.
Sheltered Agriculture
In the context of protected agriculture (e.g., greenhouses), where space is limited, and efficiency is paramount, corn shellers facilitate on-site corn de-hulling, reducing logistics and costs.
Research and education
Agricultural research institutions and educational organizations may use corn shellers for research and education. These can be used for research to explore new de-hulling techniques, optimize processing efficiency, and study the mechanical properties of corn. Agricultural schools and training centers can use corn shellers for demonstration and practical training, teaching students proper operation and management techniques.
Before choosing the perfect corn sheller, one needs to consider a few factors. These will help them select an appliance that will meet their individual needs and requirements.
Volume of corn:
Before investing in a corn sheller, one should determine the amount of corn they shell on a daily or weekly basis. If one handles a large volume of corn on a daily basis, then they should get a sheller that is efficient and fast. For those who only shell corn occasionally, a portable sheller would work well.
Power source:
Corn shellers are available in three different types depending on the power source; manual, electric, and gas-powered. Consider the power type before purchasing a corn sheller. An electric corn sheller is preferable if one has access to a constant supply of electricity. A gas-powered corn sheller will work well for those who don't have access to a constant power source, or it may be suitable for those who want a shelled that works quickly.
Kernel damage:
Some shellers damage corn kernels more than others do. Look for an ideal sheller that causes minimal damage to the kernels. Opt for shellers that have automatic adjustments and gentle threshing mechanisms. Manual corn shellers are less likely to damage kernels compared to mechanical and electric shellers.
Size and weight:
Find an ideal corn sheller with a compact design and light weight. Such a sheller will be easy to store and move around. Shellers with wheels and handles are more portable compared to those without.
Maintenance:
Consider the maintenance requirements of the corn sheller and choose one that does not require constant maintenance. To be on the safe side, select a sheller that has decent durability, long-lasting parts, and efficient performance. Go through the manual and find out the maintenance procedure for the corn sheller.
Q1: How does a sweet corn sheller work?
A1: The ear of the corn is placed in the corn sheller's inlet after adjusting it to the proper tolerances. When the corn sheller is started, the roller starts to rotate and grip the cob. As the roller turns, the corn kernels are separated from the cob and fall into the collection container.
Q2: Can a corn sheller be powered by electricity?
A2: Yes, an electric corn sheller is available and widely used in areas where electricity is constant and available. Electric corn shellers function the same way as other shellers but use electric power to rotate the shelling rollers.
Q3: What are roller corn shellers?
A3: Roller corn shellers are the most commonly used shellers. They come in different sizes and can be hand-cranked, belt-driven, or powered by electricity or gas. In a roller sheller, two grooved rollers are positioned close to each other. One roller is the driving roller, while the other is the follower or clutch roller. The corn cob is placed between the two rollers. As the rollers rotate, they grip the cob and remove the kernels, which fall into a collection container.
Q4: What are the advantages of a corn sheller?
A4: Corn shellers save time and energy. Manually removing corn kernels is a tedious and time-consuming process. Corn shellers, on the other hand, remove thousands of corn kernels in just a few minutes. Corn shellers also reduce the risk of injury to the operator's hands and fingers. The kernels are removed with precision, and the operator's hands are safely away from the grooved rollers.