Date Available
6-3-2011
Year of Publication
2011
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (MSBiosyAgE)
Document Type
Thesis
College
Agriculture; Engineering
Department
Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering
First Advisor
Dr. John H. Wilhoit
Abstract
Conventional stripping of burley tobacco is labor intensive and typically requires 50 to 75 worker hours per acre (wkr•hr/ac). The goal of the project was to reduce labor by optimizing leaf removal by string trimmer heads using combinations of strings lengths and motor speeds. In tests conducted on a single grade, all leaves outside the grade were removed by hand. Plants were run through the machine for sting lengths of 5, 7 and 9 inches and associated motor speeds which were monitored and recorded. Stripping efficiencies were calculated for each plant and collectively for each set of four plants. The machine was then tested for three grade stripping efficiency. Particle size analysis tests were run to determine potential losses due to leaf shredding. Efficiencies for single grade testing ranged from 93 to 96% for optimal string length and speed combinations. Stripping three grades by machine resulted in an average of 97% efficiency. Potential losses due to shredding accounted for 5.6% of the total weight mechanically removed. It is believed that this stripping concept, implemented on a full scale four grade basis, could result in savings of at least 18 wkr •hr/ac [45 wkr•hr/ha].
Recommended Citation
Sperry, Robert George, "DEVELOPMENT OF A SEMI-AUTOMATED TOBACCO STRIPPING MACHINE UTILIZING STRING TRIMMERS" (2011). University of Kentucky Master's Theses. 89.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/gradschool_theses/89
