Parameters and operating modes of a device for cleaning the hull of pistachio nuts

Pistachio nuts are recognized as a highly valuable commodity for both household consumption and various sectors of the food industry. The initial step in processing pistachio nuts is removing the primary outer shell, which is crucial before they can be used in food production, oil extraction, or other industrial applications. Conventional shell-cleaning methods often suffer from low efficiency, excessive energy consumption, and the risk of damaging the delicate kernel. To address these challenges, this study presents a novel shell-cleaning device featuring a high-speed, hammer-type rotor. Experimental investigations were conducted to determine the optimal operating parameters of the device, focusing on rotor speed, blade configuration, and cleaning intensity to maximize shell removal efficiency while minimizing kernel damage. Results indicated that operating the rotor at 1400-1500 revolutions per minute, combined with a four-blade hammer rotor design, achieved the best balance between cleaning effectiveness and energy consumption. The research demonstrated that this configuration significantly improves the cleaning process by enhancing shell separation efficiency without compromising kernel integrity. These findings provide a strong technical basis for implementing the proposed device in industrial pistachio processing, potentially leading to increased productivity, reduced operational costs, and improved product quality. Consequently, the study provides valuable insights into optimizing pistachio shell cleaning technology and offers practical solutions to overcome the limitations of traditional methods.