Objective: In order to solve the problems of low automation level and low efficiency of the control system in the current automated production line of hickory shell breaking. Methods: On the basis of the existing automatic production line of hickory shell breaking, a control system of hickory shell breaking automatic production line based on PLC control technology is proposed. With PLC as the core, the control of the whole hickory shell breaking automatic production line was completed, including shell breaking machine, air separator, shell breaking separator, color sorter and other equipment. The feasibility of the method was verified by testing the prototype of a walnut with a diameter of 18~22 mm. Results: Compared with that before the control system was put into operation, after the implementation of the control system, the shell breaking rate of hickory was increased and the damage rate of walnut was reduced. For hickory with a diameter of 18~22 mm, the shell breaking rate was 100%, and the damage rate of walnut was 5.02%, meeting the production requirements. Conclusion: The control technology based on PLC meets the requirements of walnut automatic production line.