Development of an Efficient Horizontal Palm Fruit Digestion Machine

Abstract

The traditional methods for processing palm kernel oil are often very tedious and labor-intensive for large quantities of the bunch. This study is aimed at the development of a horizontal palm fruit digester to produce palm oil for domestic use. The methodology used in this work involves carrying out materials selection, design calculations, construction, and performance evaluation of the machine. The materials used included mild steel, flat bar, carbon steel shaft, carbon steel rod, electric motor, and V-belt. The results of the design calculation and performance evaluation showed that the digester had a volumetric capacity of 0.077m³, 1hp electric motor, hammer speed of 439.13rpm, centrifugal force of 115.06N, hammer torque of 9.4982Nm, effective tension of 38.35N and maximum torsional moment of 16.22Nm. It was concluded that the aim of the study was achieved and it was recommended to explore corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel.