Diseño y construcción de una máquina para remover cascarilla en granos de cacao seco para una producción de 25 kg/h.

Abstract

This paper presents the mechanical design and construction of a machine to remove husks in dry cocoa beans in order to increase productivity in the agricultural sector and provide guidance to artisans involved. The initial chapter develops a theoretical study that exposes the details of the cocoa required for the design of the machine, such as: provenance, types of cocoa, physical characteristics, composition and transformation processes. The second chapter presents machine design alternatives in the ecuadorian cocoa industry. Through an evaluation of operating parameters such as operator safety, accessible construction costs, easy handling and time saving during the march, a model that meets the requirements of this project is chosen. Also, formulations and calculations applied for the design phase of the elements to be constructed or acquired for assembly take place. The systems comprising the cocoa husk are explained which are: feed system, drive system, husking system, drive system and structure; all of them following recommendations of similar projects that deal with the construction of agricultural machinery for fruit peeling. The third chapter develops a cost analysis based on catalogs and quotes from companies that provide mechanical elements and electrical materials involved in construction, labor and mobilization within the city of Quito. Subsequently, conclusions and recommendations are drawn up based on the results so that the present project can be help for future undertakings or subsequent work. Finally, the consulted bibliography, references and annexes are listed.