Development, Testing and Optimization of a Melon (Citrullus lanatus) Seed Washing Machine

Abstract

A melon seed (egusi) washing machine was designed, developed and
evaluated for performance in coring edible melon seeds out of the pods,
which are strenuous, time-consuming and tedious operation. The
machine has a capacity to process 300kg of melon seed pulp in an hour
powered by 2 hp, 1410 rpm single-phase electric motor. The melon
seed (egusi) washing machine was made up of the following main units;
hopper, washing chamber, bearing, screw conveyor, brush, electric
motor and main frame which act as supporting base. The performance
characteristics of the machine include: cleaning efficiency, output
capacity and percentage seed recovery, were evaluated at three
operating speeds (282, 325 and 423 rpm) and three feed rates of
2kg/60sec, 2kg/75sec and 2 kg/90sec. Each treatment combination was
performed in triplicates making a total of 27 values. The minimum and
maximum cleaning efficiency were 63.77 and 81.54 %, while minimum
and maximum percentage seed recovery were 40 and 84 %. The
minimum and maximum output capacity were 19.33 kg/hr and 44.47
kg/hr. Statistical analysis was performed with the use surface response
optimization and all indicated that, the optimal value for speed and
feed rate were 423 rpm and 0.033 kg.