Effect of some engineering parameters on mechanical watermelon seeds extraction [electronic resource].

Includes references.

A machine of watermelon seed extraction was evaluated for performance by conducting some experiments at Agricultural Engineering Dep., Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Sharkia Governorate, during the summer season of 2012-2013. The effect of different operating and engineering parameters was studied to evaluate the machine and choose the proper conditions for seed extracting with least losses and costs under Egyptian conditions. The machine performance was evaluated taking into consideration: machine productivity, extraction efficiency, seed losses, seed damage, energy requirements and cost. Variables of these work are three feeding rates about (20, 30 and 40 kg/min), four different separating unit speeds of 150, 200, 250 and 300 rpm (0.47, 0.63, 0.79 and 0.94 m/sec), three different dimensions ratio of separating unit (0.38, 0.30 and 0.25) and four span time between harvesting and extracting (0, 3, 5 and 7 days). From the obtained data it was concluded that; extracting at the fifth day, 30 kg/min feeding rate, 0.79 m/sec flesh cutting unit speed and 0.30 flesh cutting unit dimensions ratio are considered the proper values for seeds extracting.

Summary in Arabic.

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