February 2025: Paper of the month by Jimoh, M. O., & Olukunle, O. J. 2012 – Enhancing Food Security in Nigeria: The Impact of an Automated Cassava Peeling Machine on Efficiency and Productivity
A study by Jimoh, M. O., & Olukunle, O. J. (2012) titled “An automated cassava peeling system for the enhancement of food security in Nigeria” published in the Nigerian Food Journal reveals that the adoption of automated machines could significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of small-scale cassava processors, thereby enhancing food security in Nigeria.
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The automated cassava peeling machine significantly improves efficiency, reduces labor intensity, minimizes spoilage, and enhances productivity, benefiting small-scale cassava processors in Nigeria.– Jimoh, M. O., & Olukunle, O. J. 2012
The article explores the development and evaluation of an automated cassava peeling machine. The machine aims to improve food security in Nigeria by addressing the challenges associated with manual cassava peeling. The article highlights the importance of cassava as a staple food in Nigeria and other tropical regions. It also outlines the various unit operations involved in cassava processing, with a particular focus on peeling, which is identified as a major bottleneck. The machine was designed to be affordable and efficient, capable of peeling different varieties, shapes, and sizes of cassava tubers. The performance evaluation showed that the machine had a throughput capacity ranging from 76 to 442 kg/h, peeling efficiency between 50% and 75%, and mechanical damage ranging from 12% to 44%. Overall, the article emphasizes the potential of the automated cassava peeling machine to enhance food security by reducing labor intensity and improving processing efficiency.
How the Study was Conducted
The experiment utilized the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture’s (IITA) high-yielding tropical manioc selection (TMS 30572), a cassava variety known for its resistance to pests and diseases. The tubers were harvested at full maturity (18 months) and categorized into five size classes based on length: 100 ≤ L < 140 mm, 140 ≤ L < 180 mm, 180 ≤ L < 220 mm, 220 ≤ L < 260 mm, and 260 ≤ L < 300 mm. A cassava peeling machine was designed with considerations for affordability, adaptability to various cassava shapes and sizes, construction from readily available materials, and enhanced efficiency in reducing labor input compared to traditional peeling methods. The machine aimed to achieve higher capacity than manual operations.
The peeling machine comprised a 200 mm diameter roller with a length of 900 mm, supported by a 25 mm diameter shaft. Cutting blades were mounted on the roller at a 30° inclination and spaced 70 mm apart, while an auger facilitated both rotary and linear motion of the tubers during peeling. Additional components included a hopper, frame, monitor, and chute. Motion was powered by a variable-speed 7HP Honda petrol engine, operating within a speed range of 100 to 600 rpm.
Performance evaluation was conducted by measuring throughput capacity (Tc), calculated as the weight of cassava fed into the machine (Wt) divided by processing time (T). Peeling efficiency was determined by the proportion of peel collected (Mpc) relative to the total weight of the cassava (Ms). Mechanical damage was assessed based on the weight of the tuber portion removed along with the peel (Mf) compared to the weight of the completely peeled tuber (Mc). Peel retention was evaluated through material balance and expressed as a percentage. Quality performance efficiency was analyzed using statistical methods and regression models to determine the influence of tuber size and roller speed on peeling effectiveness.
The experimental setup involved feeding cassava tubers individually into the hopper and assessing performance across various passes. Operational parameters, including throughput capacity, peeling efficiency, mechanical damage, quality performance efficiency, and peel retention, were recorded for each tuber size class and machine speed.
What the Authors Found
The authors found that the machine showed considerable improvements over manual methods and existing machines, and the auger and monitors were effective in improving the peeling process. The study also posits that the adoption of this machine could significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of small-scale cassava processors, thereby enhancing food security in Nigeria.
Why is this important?
Efficiency and Productivity: The machine significantly increases the efficiency of cassava peeling, reducing labor intensity and time required. This ensures that cassava, a staple food for millions in Nigeria, is processed more quickly and reliably, helping to meet the demand for food.
Reducing Spoilage: Cassava tubers deteriorate quickly after harvest. By speeding up the peeling process, the machine helps prevent spoilage, ensuring more tubers make it to the market and onto plates.
Cost-Effective: The machine is designed to be affordable for local farmers, enabling them to process cassava more efficiently without incurring high costs.
Job Creation: The production, maintenance, and operation of these machines can create job opportunities in rural areas, boosting local economies.
Accessibility: Small-scale farmers often struggle with manual peeling, which is labor-intensive and slow. This machine provides them with a practical solution to improve their processing capabilities.
Increased Production: With more efficient peeling, farmers can process larger quantities of cassava, leading to increased production and potential for higher incomes.
Innovation: The development of this machine represents a step forward in agricultural mechanization, encouraging further innovation and modernization in the sector.
Scalability: The machine’s design and principles can be adapted and scaled for other crops and regions, fostering broader agricultural advancements.
Resource Efficiency: By reducing wastage and improving processing methods, the machine contributes to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Reduced Labor Intensity: The machine alleviates the burden on manual labor, which is often carried out by women and children, promoting better working conditions and freeing up time for other productive activities.
What the Authors Recommended
- The authors recommend that small-scale cassava processors adopt this machine to enhance their processing capabilities. The machine’s efficiency can help reduce spoilage and increase the productivity of cassava processing, which is crucial since cassava tubers deteriorate quickly after harvest.
- The authors emphasize the need for continued research to further optimize the design of the machine. This includes improving peeling efficiency and reducing mechanical damage to the tubers.
- The principles and design of the automated cassava peeling machine could be adapted for use with other root and tuber crops. Further research is recommended to explore this potential.
- The authors emphasize the importance of training programs for local farmers and processors. These programs should focus on the operation, maintenance, and benefits of using the automated peeling machine.
- The authors suggest that government policies should support the adoption of agricultural mechanization technologies, including the automated cassava peeling machine. Policies could include subsidies, grants, or low-interest loans to make these machines more accessible to farmers.
- In addition, the authors recommend conducting a comprehensive economic evaluation of the machine’s impact on cassava processing. This analysis should consider factors such as cost savings, increased productivity, and potential income generation for farmers.
The development of an automated cassava peeling machine presents a transformative solution for small-scale cassava processors in Nigeria, significantly improving efficiency, reducing labor intensity, and minimizing post-harvest losses. By accelerating the peeling process, this innovation not only enhances productivity but also ensures that more cassava reaches the market in optimal condition, bolstering food security. Furthermore, its affordability and adaptability make it a viable option for local farmers, fostering economic growth and job creation in rural communities. With continued research, policy support, and farmer training programs, the widespread adoption of this technology could revolutionize cassava processing and contribute to a more sustainable and modernized agricultural sector in Nigeria.
Cite this article as (APA format):
AR Managing Editor (2025). February 2025: Paper of the month by Jimoh, M. O., & Olukunle, O. J. 2012 – Enhancing Food Security in Nigeria: The Impact of an Automated Cassava Peeling Machine on Efficiency and Productivity. Retrieved from https://www.africanresearchers.org/february-2025-paper-of-the-month-by-jimoh-m-o-olukunle-o-j-2012-enhancing-food-security-in-nigeria-the-impact-of-an-automated-cassava-peeling-machine-on-efficiency-and-productivity/
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