The primary function of a corn sheller is to separate corn kernels from the cobs. This task, which was once labor - intensive and time-consuming when done manually, can now be completed rapidly and with minimal effort using a corn sheller. It is widely used in corn - growing regions around the world, from small - scale family farms to large - scale commercial agricultural operations. The shelled corn kernels can be further processed into various products such as cornmeal, corn oil, or used as animal feed, while the remaining cobs can be utilized for biofuel production, bedding for livestock, or composting.

Most corn shellers operate on a mechanical principle. Typically, the corn cobs are fed into the machine through an inlet. Inside the sheller, there are rotating components, such as rollers or cylinders with specially designed teeth or ridges. As the corn cobs come into contact with these rotating parts, the kernels are stripped off by the mechanical force generated by the rotation. The separated kernels then fall through grates or sieves, while the empty cobs are discharged through another outlet. Some advanced models may also incorporate air - blowing systems to remove any remaining debris or small pieces of cob from the shelled kernels, ensuring a cleaner output.