Which type of sorter uses a pivoting arm to divert products onto a takeaway conveyor?

• A. Paddle sorter
• B. Belt sorter
• C. Air jet sorter
• D. Roller sorter

Answer: (A)

A pivoting arm as the diverting element is the hallmark of a paddle sorter. In this system, a flat paddle attached to a hinge swings into the path of a product and nudges or redirects it onto the takeaway conveyor, while other items keep moving on the main line. This mechanical action is synchronized with sensors to send the right item to the correct stream, making the pivoting arm the key feature. Other methods rely on different mechanisms—air jets use a blast of air to push items away, and roller or belt-based setups use moving surfaces or gates rather than a swing arm to achieve diversion.