Small-scale low-cost mechanical corn harvester
1997
Bulaong, M. | Bermundo, E.A. (National Postharvest Inst. for Research and Extension, Munoz, Nueva Ecija (Philippines))
A corn harvester designed and developed at NAPHIRE [National Postharvest Inst. for Research and Extension, Munoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines] prevents grain damage and speeds up harvesting operations. The machine is the first to be developed in the country. Imported old models found scattered in the country are non-operational because of problems such as bulkiness of the unit which makes it hard to maneuver in small farms; machine is heavy and runs a ground in wet fields; and unavailablity of aftersales parts and service. The spiral lugged roller design of the corn harvester makes harvesting more gentle to the stalks. Upon contact with the roller, the corn ear is snapped off right away. Snapped corn ears are cleaner. The harvester runs at the speed of 2.5 kph and snapper roller RPM of 1000. This setting enables the harvest of 1 ha corn in 7.2 hours, turning and unloading times included. Only two persons are required to complete the harvesting operation. Compared with manual harvesting which requires at least 12 persons/day/ha, the machine saves on labor and cost. Harvesting cost for the equipment is P516/ha/day, while cost for manual harvesting is P1,440/ha/day (at P120/day per person/ha). This amount is P924 higher than using the corn harvester. Economic analysis indicates fabrication (labor and materials) cost of P65,000. A 39.8 percent return on investment will be obtained in 2.7 years. The machine's life span is 10 years if used for 120 days a year. The corn harvesting assembly would cost P24,000. Additional income can be gained if the four-wheel vehicle will be used for other purposes such as hauling. With the corn harvester, scarcity of labor during peak harvest will be minimized, thereby, preventing exposure of standing crops to rodent and insect infestation, mold growth, possible pilferage, and further contamination
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