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1 A. B. Istifanus* and 2 W.D. Fwenton -
1 Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering Department, Taraba State University, Jalingo – Nigeria. 2 Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute, Jalingo Taraba State
A cassava peeling machine fitted
with1.0 kW electric motor was designed, constructed, and tested locally with a
view to addressing the challenges of traditional manual peeling methods
commonly used in Nigeria. The developed machine was intended to enhance peeling
efficiency, reduce physical strain, and improve productivity for small- and medium-scale
cassava processors. The motorized peeler was therefore tested for efficiency,
throughput and reliability.
Locally available materials were
employed to ensure cost-effectiveness and ease of maintenance. Design
considerations focused on ergonomics, safety, durability, and adaptability to
varying tuber sizes. The performance evaluation showed that the machine
achieved effective peeling with minimal flesh loss and consistent throughput.
The results of the test indicated improved
peeling efficiency of 69.57% and the test results further shows that 10kg
weight of unpeeled cassava could be peeled within a period of 4minutes,
suggesting superiority of this machine over traditional methods. The total cost
of fabrication placed atless than 2 USD(₦196, 000,) makes it affordable for
smallholder farmers and processors. This motorized peeling machine represents a
step forward in mechanizing cassava processing in Nigeria, contributing to food
security, value addition, and rural economic development.
