Philippine E-Journals

[ENGINEERING]Design and Development of a Motorized Hydraulic Presser for Farm-Level Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) Industry Application

Renee C. Tan | Consorcio S. Namoco Jr.

Discipline: Engineering

 

Abstract:

A motorized hydraulic pressing device for coconut milk extraction is designed and developed. Design considerations include higher production rate in extracting coconut milk, high quality of milk extracted, maintenance friendliness, and ease and safety of operation. The device is composed of a hydraulic presser frame, perforated cylinder and a hydraulic assembly. It has a variable pressing force which can be controlled by a control valve. The pressing device is expected to help the farm level VCO producers and cooperatives in enhancing the production efficiency and product quality of virgin coconut oil. Actual testing of the device shows that the amount of milk that can be extracted is considerably increased at a shorter time as compared to the existing devices used by the farm-level VCO farmers. This may result to increase in their productivity, and hence, increasing the profitability of their business. Extraction of coconut milk is optimum at 1500 psi, pressing cycle of 12 and 5 kg weight of coconut meat.