Performance Evaluation of a Modified Mobile Melon Depodding Machine

Abstract

Melons, a vital crop rich in proteins and oils, are predominantly cultivated in West Africa and used extensively in local cuisines. This study  focused on the performance evaluation of a modified mobile melon depodding machine, designed to overcome the limitations of  stationary, electricity-dependent machines through enhanced mobility and a petrol engine. The machine's efficiency was assessed at various operating speeds (230, 255, 272, 287, and 310 rpm), examining metrics such as seed and pulp discharge efficiencies, depodding  efficiency, material discharge efficiency, and overall efficiency. Results revealed that seed discharge efficiency ranged between 66.50%  and 70.61%, and pulp discharge efficiency increased with speed, reaching up to 90.18%. The optimal performance was noted at 272 rpm with a depodding efficiency of 89.05% and an overall efficiency of 69.10%. These findings underscore the modified machine's capacity to  enhance melon seed extraction processes significantly, providing a robust solution for agricultural productivity in areas lacking electrical  infrastructure.