DEVELOPMENT OF EQUIPMENT FOR LOADING TUBERS OR POST-HARVEST PRODUCTS ON TRANSPORT AND HANDLING MEANS

Abstract

This research represents some designable and operational factors for development of a product handling machine. A throwing machine was developed to suit the loading of tubers, such as: potatoes – sugar beet – table beet. The important designing and operating factors were studied, including: rotational speed – angle of throwing from the machine to fall a trailer – and initial throwing height. A model was made to simulate the machine by scale 1:2 with some changes in rotational speed, vanes angle, initial height, and throwing angle to suit tubers. The experiment was run on potato tubers. This machine is for use in loading tubers on trailers after harvesting for sorting and storage. Experiment included: range of rotational speeds from 300 to 800 rpm, two vanes rotor driven by motor shaft, three angles of throwing (55, 65, and 75 degrees), and changes in height of throwing and distance to the trailer. Results revealed the following - The most suitable angle of machine to throwing is 75 degree with horizontal direction - The most suitable rotational speed range with less damage in tubers is 500 to 600 rpm - The maximum tubers throwing height was 3:4 m - The suitable horizontal distance to trailer with the highest throwing conditions of experiment was 3:5 m. - The maximum efficiency of loading by designed machine was 78%.