Development of a standard specification for latex harvesting utensil (LHU) to assist procurement process

Over the years, evolution on how rubber latex has been collected can be observed. Various types of material have been used as the latex collection cup, and the most commonly used is plastic cup. It is important to use the right collection cup to ensure ease of handling and to preserve the quality latex harvested. The main objective of this paper is to share on the specification developed for latex harvesting utensil (LHU), a set of components, comprising of cup, spout, hanger and spring. Firstly, comparison was made between existing specification for LHU, i.e.: MRB specification and RISDA specification, which both specifications only specify design and dimension for each component of LHU. The main differences observed between the two were the design for spout and spring, whereby those specified in the MRB specification are better. Next, a simple, quantitative, and measurable performance requirement for each component of LHU were developed and established. From the studies, the material selection for plastic cup shall be specified as semi crystalline thermoplastics based on the chemical analysis and the weathering test conducted. The performance test for the plastic cup shall be the compression test, with the minimum breaking point at 1600 N. The hanger and spring shall use galvanised low carbon steel wire with a thickness of 2.34 mm and 1.50 mm respectively. The spring shall have the straight gap between the coils to hold and secure the hanger firmly. The spout shall use galvanised steel sheet with jagged-end for easier affixation to the bark of a rubber tree. The performance test for hanger, spring and spout shall be the bending test, with the minimum bending point at 145 N, 62 N, and 12 N respectively. Finally, the carefully identified and selected design, requirement, and performance test for each of the LHU components were then specified in the standard specification. The standard specification is a simplified document which can be used by both producer and user of LHU. The standard specification developed for LHU would make it easier for the industry players to be more efficient, since standards bring real and measurable benefits to everyone and therefore, ensure products are reliable and of good quality.