ISSN 2360-7955
Abstract
The design and fabrication of a cassava peeling machine is aimed at providing a base for the processing of cassava, using locally available materials. The need and importance of this research study are eminent because of the increase in the production of cassava tubers, as farmers deserve a drudgery-free cassava processing operation. The cassava peeling machine is powered by a variable-speed GX390 multipurpose gasoline engine (±1,600 rpm) with a maximum power output of 8.2 kW and a rated power of 8.0 kW. Power is transmitted through the belt from the engine pulley (driving pulley) to the gearbox pulley (driven pulley). The gearbox translates the radial motion of the driven pulley shaft to the axial motion of the machine peeling disc, which is assembled at the base of the stationary peeling drum. Tubers of cassava are loaded into the peeling drum, which is abraded (inner surface). As the peeling disc rotates, it causes relative motion on the cassava tubers. The cassava tubers constantly rub and tumble against the abrasive surface of the peeling drum, which results in peeling. Water is sprinkled while the machine is in operation to wash off peels from the tubers. Before loading, the engine has to be in operation and run for at least 2 minutes to avoid stalling or jamming. The average peeling efficiency of the machine is found to be 88.1% with a throughput of 280 kg/hr. Key components of the machine include the prime mover, peeling drum, an abrasive peeling surface, machine stand, and a transmission system (gearbox). The research centre is at the College of Agriculture, Science, and Technology, Lafia, Nasarawa State, in the Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology. The total cost estimate of the research is One Million, Four Hundred and Fifty-Two Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty-Six Naira Only (N1,452,126).
Keywords: Design, Construction, Cassava, Peeling Machine, Testing.