About second-hand Potato sorting machines

Today, the market expects a high-quality and uniform product, both for consumption and seed potatoes. To achieve this result, the use of machines has become increasingly essential—not only for growing potatoes but also for sorting them.

Using a potato sorting machine significantly increases the yield of potatoes, as more potatoes end up in a better-paid trade size.

On this page, you will find all the potato sorting machines we currently have in stock. From shock to roller sorters and from small sorting machines to complete potato sorting lines—you’ll find it all at Duijndam Machines. On the page of a specific potato sorting machine, you will find extensive information, including photos and videos. Still have questions? Feel free to contact us so that one of our specialists can assist you!

Types of Used Potato Sorting Machines

To sort potatoes by size, different types of potato sorting machines are used. These can be divided into three main categories:

• Shock Sorters
• Roller Sorters
• Optical Sorters

The first two variants range from simple versions for small growers to complete sorting lines. Optical sorting machines, due to their technical complexity, are primarily suited for large-scale operations.

Potato sorting machines can be used as standalone units or integrated into a complete sorting line, complemented by additional equipment such as roller inspection belts, waste removal conveyors, and box fillers.

Used Shock Potato Sorters

The most commonly used potato sorting machine is the shock sorter. This machine operates using shaking screens, through which potatoes are propelled by a vibrating motion. As the sieve holes gradually increase in size, the potatoes are sorted from small to large.

One key advantage of shock sorters is that the sieves can be easily exchanged for different sizes, allowing you to meet varying demands. Additionally, this type of machine is often suitable for sorting other similarly shaped products, such as onions.

Within shock sorters, there are three main types:

Box Sorters 

Potatoes fall directly into boxes after passing through the sieve. This method is ideal if you store all or most of your product in boxes.

Bunker Sorters 

Similar to box sorters, but instead of falling directly into a box, potatoes are stored in a bunker.

Step Sorters 

Unlike box and bunker sorters, which move potatoes horizontally over the sieves, step sorters use a vertical movement via a "step" system. Potatoes are lifted first, and then sieves gradually descend in a stair-like manner. The advantage of this system is that it utilizes height, reducing the required floor space.

Used Roller Potato Sorters

Roller sorters use a different technique but achieve the same sorting function. Instead of shaking screens, these machines use rotating rollers to move the potatoes. As the gap between individual rollers gradually increases, the largest potatoes remain on the rollers the longest.

A key benefit of roller sorters is their compact size, though their capacity is somewhat limited. This makes them particularly suitable for smaller-scale sorting operations.

Optical Quality Inspection for Potatoes

Traditionally, both seed and consumption potatoes have been sorted by size and then manually inspected before being stored or sold. However, optical potato sorters are becoming increasingly popular.

As the name suggests, an optical potato sorter uses cameras to sort potatoes based on visual characteristics. This allows sorting not only by size but also by external quality factors, eliminating the need for manual inspection on a roller belt.

However, optical sorting technology is still relatively young and complex. As a result, optical potato sorting machines are significantly more expensive than shock or roller sorters.

Complete Potato Sorting Lines

Potato sorting machines can be purchased as standalone units, but they can also be bought or custom-fitted as part of a sorting line. A sorting line may include components such as:

• A conveyor belt to transport the potatoes
• A brush machine to clean off dirt
• A pre-sorter
• A box tipper to empty storage boxes

When investing in a potato sorting line, it's important to consider various aspects such as supply, storage, pre-sorting, and packaging. Additionally, ensuring that all components are compatible in terms of capacity is essential for an efficient sorting process.

If you are looking for a potato sorter to integrate into your sorting line, compatibility with your existing machinery is crucial. Not sure if a machine fits your setup? Contact us for expert advice!

Popular Potato Sorting Machine Brands

Several manufacturers supply potato sorting machines. At Duijndam Machines, we mainly stock potato sorters from Compas, Schouten, and Perfect. These brands are popular due to their reliability and the availability of spare parts for maintenance.

Schouten potato sorting machines come in various models, including both roller and shaking screen sorters. Schouten also offers additional machines to expand your sorting line, such as pre-sorters.

How to Find the Right Used Potato Sorting Machine

On this page, you can browse our available used potato sorting machines. Use the filter on the left side to refine your search by brand or application. Each machine’s product page provides detailed information, including photos.

Interested in a specific machine? You can easily request more information or a free quote. Want to be absolutely sure before purchasing? Feel free to call us or visit our facility to inspect the machine in person. Seeing the machine firsthand will give you the best impression of its condition and functionality. We’re also happy to provide expert advice on which potato sorting machine best suits your needs.

How We Work at Duijndam Machines

At Duijndam Machines, we always strive to maintain a large and high-quality inventory. Typically, we stock around 1,400 used machines. Our philosophy is that the machines we sell should be reliable and last for years.

Our focus on quality starts with careful selection. Once we acquire a machine, it undergoes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and any necessary repairs. Meanwhile, we upload clear photos and descriptions on our website so that potential buyers can make informed decisions.

Once you've found the right machine, we can arrange worldwide delivery to your location. Are you interested in one of our potato sorters? Contact us today for personalized advice!