DESIGN MODIFICATION OF A CASSAVA DEWATERING MACHINE

Authors: *Kadurumba C.H, Ogunsola T.M, Nwogu-Chibuike C.G.

DOI Info: N/A

ABSTRACT

This design work presents an improved centrifuge for dewatering cassava mash that extracts effluent from the mash for any genotype of cassava. The methods adopted in the execution of this project work include; Machine design, Machine development, Machine evaluation and Optimization to compare the present machine to that of the previous designs. Machine efficiency, safety factors, and portability were considered in this research. The receiver hopper was carefully designed at the angle 23° that the mash can flow smoothly while filter basket, shaft, collector and conveyor auger were designed using stainless steel. Also, the frame of the machine is made up of angle iron at the four corners for support and holding the top bearings are mild steel metals to keep it in place and withstand vibration. Pulleys used in the design were made of cast iron. The screw conveyor and the basket end plate designed using mild steel to serve a dual purpose; cover for the filter basket and shaft for the basket bearing while blower was also introduced for drying of mash faster and yarn used for preventing leakages. The machine runs on a single phase five horsepower electric motor at a speed of 1440 rpm. The capacity of the dewatering fabricated was 158 kg/hr and 30% reduction in size and 50 % reduction in price was achieved.

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