Optimization and Performance Testing of a Hydraulic Coconut Milk Extraction Machine
Abstract
Abstract
The study aimed to design, fabricate, and evaluate a hydraulically powered coconut milk extraction machine to address challenges related to labor intensity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in small-scale coconut processing. The machine was developed using locally available materials and technology, focusing on enhancing extraction efficiency, recovery, and capacity while ensuring accessibility for a broader user base, including women and people with disabilities.
The research involved a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five different pressure settings (1300 to 1700 psi) to assess the machine's performance. The evaluation parameters included extraction efficiency, recovery, and capacity. Results indicated that the machine achieved peak extraction efficiency of 92.51% and a maximum extraction capacity of 50.98 kg/hr at 1600 psi. However, higher pressures did not significantly impact extraction efficiency and recovery, suggesting that while pressure plays a role, its effect is limited within the tested range. The machine outperformed traditional hydraulic jack-type and screw-type extractors in terms of efficiency, recovery, and capacity.
Financial analysis showed that the machine has a low operating cost of Php 144,183.60 per year, with an annual revenue of Php 403,930.80, resulting in a net income of Php 259,747.20. The break-even point was calculated at 15,435.26 kg of grated coconut meat, with a payback period of approximately 0.35 years and a high rate of return of 180%. The results demonstrate that the hydraulic-powered coconut milk extractor is a cost-effective and efficient solution for small-scale coconut processing, offering substantial improvements over existing methods and contributing to the profitability and sustainability of coconut-based enterprises.
Keywords: Hydraulic coconut milk extractor, Small-scale coconut processing, Extraction efficiency, Cost-effectiveness, Performance evaluation, financial analysis, Locally available materials
