Development of an Automated Cassava Grating Machine

Automated Cassava Grating Machine

Abstract

Without a doubt, mechanization of cassava processing operations will be essential to eliminating the drawbacks of conventional processing methods and fostering prompt, extensive processing of the tubers in a clean atmosphere. The development of an automated cassava grating machine is the main goal of this project. The main frame, feed hopper, automation unit, pulley, bearings, electric motor, discharge unit, shaft, V-belts, bolts and nuts, perforated stainless mesh, etc. are all parts of the automated cassava grating machine. A belt transfers the motor's power to the pulley, which powers the grater, while it is in operation. Grating occurs when the loaded, peeled cassava tubers touch the contact plate. This maintains contact between the tubers and the revolving grating drum and activates the grating mechanism. The plate returns to its original position when there is no longer any cassava in the grating chamber, which prevents any grating from occurring. The speed ratio for belt drives, grating force, grating power, distance between driven and driving pulley, lap angle, torque, belt tension, and shaft diameter were obtained as 1:3, 208.54 N, 2.5 hp, 0.4 m, 2.89 rad, 15.64 Nm, and 18.29 N, 40 mm. An average minimum grating time of 0.0313 hr. was required for the successful grating of the cassava tubers. Besides, an improved grating efficiency and machine throughput capacity of 99.91% and 752.826 kg/h. were obtained, respectively.