Design and fabrication of cocopeat production machine
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Author |
Sandra A. Hollman, Jameel Farooq S. Babate, Joseph Aaron M. Darvin, Aaron John B. Gatchalian, John Kenneth E. Macatangay and Alfred David P. Superable
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e-ISSN |
1819-6608 |
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On Pages
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168-176
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Volume No. |
20
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Issue No. |
4
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Issue Date |
April 12, 2025
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DOI |
https://doi.org/10.59018/022529
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Keywords |
cocopeat, sterilizing drum, decorating drum, coir dust, gravimetric ratio, electrical conductivity, pH level, sterilization.
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Abstract
The study aimed to create agriculturally ready cocopeat and support small to medium-scale coconut farms by designing a cocopeat production machine with a sterilizing drum. Powered by a 12hp diesel engine, the machine utilized a decorticating drum to separate coir dust and fibers from coconut husks. The coir dust underwent sterilization in a heating drum for five minutes. Testing revealed a 56.25% gravimetric ratio between input and output. The resulting cocopeat underwent comparisons with market-available cocopeat. Electrical conductivity, tested by diluting wet specimens in deionized water, averaged .1724 mS/cm. The pH level, determined through the same process, averaged 6.85. Findings showcased the positive impact of sterilization on cocopeat properties. The production machine, equipped with a sterilizing drum, efficiently transformed coconut husks, minimizing coco fiber waste and yielding high-quality cocopeat. This innovation enhances cocopeat quality and provides an additional income stream for coconut farmers, promoting sustainability and economic growth within the agricultural sector.
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