Mechanisation in oil palm plantation: some practical considerations
1999
Teo, L. (EPA Management Sdn Bhd, K B 705, 80990 Johor Bahru, Johor (Malaysia))
Mechanisation aims to increase land: labour ratio in oil palm plantations. Pre-requisite to field mechanisation is a well-planned road system. Due considerations are to be given to road density, road gradient and erosion control, road loading and road safety in order to achieve a reliable and efficient road system while keeping cost of construction and maintenance at low level. Fertiliser application, in-field FFB collection and mainline transport are major mechanisable field operations. Practical considerations to achieve quality work standard at low cost of fertiliser application to cover even terrace area include: i) choice of spreader and its proper calibration; ii) provision of turning points to avoid wastage of fertiliser; iii) pre-determined points for loading and unloading of fertiliser; iv) adoption of Fertisave system; v) appropriate age of planting and ground condition at introduction; vi) suitable terrace width and/or inter-terrace path, and vii) proper and regular maintenance. Compatibility of mechanised systems between in-field FFB collection and crop evacuation to palm oil mill is vital. The choice of system can be influenced by contract or checkroll harvesting and the engagement of own and/or contract transport. Many factors, irrespective of systems adopted, can directly and indirectly affect the productivity of workers and of machines.
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