To address the challenges of peeling Cyperus esculentus, a spiral kneading peeling machine was designed using Solidworks, and the material motion within the peeling drum was simulated using EDEM discrete element software. The results show that there is a positive correlation between the angle of the peeling drum relative to the horizontal plane and the the average particle velocity. A larger angle results in more pronounced changes in particle velocity. The offset distance between kneading rollers has a certain influence on the average particle velocity. When the dislocation distance between kneading rollers group is less than 45mm, an increase in the distance leads to a greater amplitude of velocity variation. The curvature radius of the circular section of the kneading claw has insignificant impact on the average velocity of the particles; however, during the kneading process, a larger curvature radius increases the duration of particle interaction. The research shows that when the angle between the drum and the horizontal plane is 5°, the offset distance between roller groups is 45 mm, and the curvature radius of the circular section of the kneading claw is 100 mm, the average particle velocity and particle distribution in the cylinder of the peeling machine are optimized. The research findings not only provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the design and process conditions of spiral kneading peeling machines, but also have practical value for improving the peeling efficiency and oil extraction quality of Cyperus esculentus. Moreover, the research method also serves as a reference for the research on the peeling/shelling mechanisms oother crops similar to Cyperus esculentus.