Design and Development of a Coconut Fiber Extracting Machine

Abstract

There is a need for the development of tools to support increased agricultural production, both before and after harvest. One of the key crops is coconut. Coconut husks have significant potential as raw materials for producing mattresses, carpets, car seat covers, pillows, and rubber fibers, with a promising future. Additionally, ground coconut shells, commonly known as cocopeat, and coconut fibers, derived from peeled coconut husks (cocofiber), are highly valuable. This study aims to design a coconut husk decorticator machine and calculate the output capacity of the decortication process. The research adopts a literature review approach, and the design process involves creating equipment sketches and calculating the development costs. The manufacturing process may include cutting, welding, drilling, and other relevant methods. The coconut husk decorticator machine comprises several components, including an electric motor, V-belt, pulleys, cover, frame, and bearing supports. The machine uses an electric motor with a power rating and speed of 1,800 rpm, operating with a shredding or decorticating method. Its dimensions are 700 x 600 x 207 x 250 mm, with a frame made of 4x4 cm (Calestindo Steel) iron angles with a thickness of 2 mm. The cover is made of 1.5 mm thick steel plates to enclose the blade shaft, and bolts are used to secure all parts during assembly. The test results show that the machine successfully processes coconut husks into cocopeat and cocofiber. Within 60 minutes, it can decorticate 8 kg of coconut husks, producing 6 kg of cocofiber and 1.2 kg of cocopeat.