Evaluation of Mechanical Z-Type Elevator Operation for Handling Seed Corn

Abstract

Handling systems in seed processing factories inflict impressive damages on seed corn. It was reported 24% of damages on seed corns related to elevators. In current research, the operation of a Z- Shape elevator was studied and compared to conventional bucket elevator which employed in two seed drying stations of Seed and Plant Improvement Institute in Karaj city and Shahi plant in Moghan plain, Iran. The effect of elevator operation on seed cracking and breakage was determined by t- test. According to the results, applying Z- Shape elevator decreased the physical seed damages up to 78% and reduced the chance of seed cracking between 4 to 8% in comparison with conventional elevators. Economically results illustrated spending the cost equal to 10% of the loss funds which was accrued due to employing conventional elevators, could decrease damages until 90% in Moghan plain.