Effect of Operating Parameters on Performance of an Attrition-based Apricot Nut Cracker

Jagvir Dixit; Mehak Ashiq Kawoosa; Shahzad Faisal

doi:10.52151/jae2020572.1711

Authors

Jagvir Dixit College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar Author
Mehak Ashiq Kawoosa College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar Author
Shahzad Faisal College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52151/jae2020572.1711

Keywords:

Apricot nut cracker, roller speed, feed rate, moisture content, cracking efficiency, kernel damage, through put capacity

Abstract

The operating parameters of an attrition-based apricot nut cracker were studied. The cracking unit of the machine consisted of two rollers made of hollow mild steel pipes punched along its circumferance to make a rough surface, with clearance between the rollers adjustable in order to accommodate apricot nuts of varying sizes. The operating parameters comprised of three levels each of roller speed and feed rate; and two levels of moisture content. The roller speed, feed rate and moisture content significantly affected the cracking efficiency, kernel damage and throughput capacity. Increasing the roller speed enhanced the kernel damage, whereas increasing the feed rate reduced the kernel damage. Roller speed and moisture content had a significant impact on un-cracked nuts, whereas, feed rate did not have significant impact on un-cracked nuts. Similarly, increasing roller speed and feed rate enhanced the throughput capacity. Increase in the moisture content decreased the cracking efficiency and enhanced the kernel damage. Empirical equations were formulated based on multiple linear models. Based on response surface methodology, roller speed of 394 mm.s-1, moisture content of 8-10 %, and feed rate of 45 kg.h-1 were the optimal values for efficient operation of the apricot nut cracker. The response parameters cracking efficiency, kernel damage, un-cracked nut and throughput capacity were obtained as75.99 %, 11.35 %, 3.75 % and 44.96 kg.h-1, respectively.

Author Biographies

Jagvir Dixit, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar

Professor
Mehak Ashiq Kawoosa, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar

Research Scholar
Shahzad Faisal, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, SKUAST-K, Srinagar

Assistant Professor

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