Development of a slicing machine for fresh-cut pineapple
I. Ab Aziz, A. Samsudin, A. Shafie, M.N. Latifah and O. Azlan
ISHS Acta Horticulturae 902:477-478.2011.
2011
บทคัดย่อ
Preparation of fresh-cut pineapple usually is done manually to form cubes, semi-circles or wedges. The cut product is not uniform, which causes problems during packing. Preparation is also time consuming, especially for the bulk handling of fresh-cut pineapple for commercial application. Imported machines for cutting fruits into various shapes are available on the market. However, the high cost of the machine hinders use, especially by small-scale fruit operators. Intensive research had been conducted in developing a suitable slicing machine to cater for the needs of the local pineapple processors. The development of the slicing machine was based on two systems, namely rotary and centrifugal type working condition. This paper emphasizes machine development and its operating system. At normal rate, the slicing machine is capable of processing 360 fruits per hour. The slicing machine is easy to operate, of simple design, cost effective and easy to clean.