Stärkelsersorter

Stärkelsersorter, often translated as starch sorters, are specialized machines used in the food processing industry. Their primary function is to separate starch granules from other components in plant-based materials, particularly during the processing of grains like corn or wheat, and tubers like potatoes. This separation is crucial for isolating the starch, which is then used in a wide array of food products as a thickening agent, stabilizer, or emulsifier.

These sorting devices typically employ a combination of physical properties of starch, such as size, density, and solubility, to achieve separation. Common methods include screening, centrifugation, and flotation. Screening uses sieves with specific mesh sizes to allow starch granules to pass through while retaining larger particles. Centrifugal separators use rotational force to separate components based on their density, with starch often being denser than other plant matter. Flotation techniques may leverage differences in surface properties to separate starch from impurities.

The efficient operation of stärkelsersorter is vital for obtaining high-purity starch, which directly impacts the quality and functionality of the final food products. Different types of starch, such as native starch, modified starch, and starch derivatives, require varying degrees of purity and specific processing steps, influencing the design and operation of the sorters. Advancements in technology have led to more sophisticated and energy-efficient sorting systems, improving yields and reducing waste in starch production.