Yam is a versatile crop and plays a vital role in tropical regions, where it can be transformed into various food products. Peeling is an essential step in the processing of yam, as it increases its value. While manual peeling with knives is common in households, larger-scale production requires the use of yam peeling machines. The objective of this study was to analyze and enhance the performance of an existing yam peeling machine. The key components of the machine include the machine frame, a wire mesh-like drum, a speed reduction gear motor, a pumping machine, sprockets, pipes, and a water container. The yam peeler is powered by a three-phase 2 hp electric motor. The machine was tested on three different types of yams with varying moisture contents and at different speeds. Various performance parameters such as peeling efficiency, peeling capacity, flesh loss, and time efficiency were evaluated. Statistical analysis and SPSS models were utilized to examine the relationship between different factors and the performance metrics of the machine. The study revealed that as the peeling speed increased, the efficiency decreased. The peeling efficiency ranged from 63.27% to 92.74%, peeling capacity ranged from 2.28 kg/h to 11.34 kg/h, and flesh loss varied from 7.26% to 36.73%. The moisture content of the yams, peeling speeds, and tuber morphology were found to have significant effects on peeling efficiency, flesh loss, peeling capacity, and time efficiency. The yam peeler production cost is estimated to be $150. The machine demonstrated suitability for small-scale food industries due to its low cost and minimal maintenance requirements.
The research does not involve any ethical issues.
Primary Language | English |
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Subjects | Biosystem |
Journal Section | Research Articles |
Authors | |
Publication Date | June 30, 2024 |
Submission Date | November 2, 2023 |
Acceptance Date | January 17, 2024 |
Published in Issue | Year 2024 |
Turkish Journal of Food and Agriculture Sciences is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Journal Abbreviation: Turk J Food Agric Sci