Design and development of a banana pseudostem chopping machine

Abstract

This study focuses on the design and development of a banana pseudostem chopping machine to replace inefficient traditional chopping methods. Conventional chopping using knives or machetes is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and produces uneven particle sizes. To address these issues, the machine was designed considering the physical and mechanical properties of banana pseudostem, including length, diameter, weight, moisture content, and cutting force. A 3 hp single-phase electric motor with a belt-pulley transmission system was selected to reduce motor speed from 2800 rpm to the required chopping range. Design calculations for blade radius (350 mm), cutting force (20.39 N), torque (7.136 N-m), and power requirement (2.092 kW) guided the development of the chopping unit, feed mechanism, and structural frame. Locally available materials were used for fabrication to ensure durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of operation. Field evaluation confirmed the machine’s ability to achieve high chopping efficiency and output, demonstrating its technical feasibility and suitability for small and medium-scale farmers.