Design of a separator machine for oil palm fruit mesocarp and nut using computer‐aided design and linear finite element analysis

Abstract

This study addresses the inefficiencies in the current palm oil milling process, where the coexistence of mesocarp fiber and nut during pressing results in oil loss and nut breakage. To tackle this issue, the research aims to develop a machine that can separate mesocarp fibers from nuts before pressing, enhancing oil extraction and quality. The study involves designing the machine layout, creating schematic drawings, wireframe models, and assessing stress and deformation performance. Solidworks simulation was used to determine stress and deformation points within material properties, dimensions, and applied forces. The maximum stress on the rotating disc was 1.44 MPa, with a total deformation of 9.75 x 10−4 mm. Comparing this to the static component strength against cracking (0.093 MPa) revealed that the disc's material and design can safely with stand loads, preventing deformation during the mesocarp and nut separation process. This innovation promises to increase oil yields and improve oil quality in palm oil milling.Practical applicationsThe separation of mesocarp fiber and nuts using centrifugal force is a feasible method. By removing nuts from the mesh (fiber) prior digestion and oil extraction process, the issue of nut breakage will be completely omitted, and thus the pressure can be further increased to maximize oil yield at the palm oil mill industries. This suggested approach has been demonstrated to produce a large amount of oil with minimal broken kernels. The crude palm oil obtained from this separation process also satisfies industrial standards.