Abstract

The removal of stalks and husks from seeds is called threshing. It can be done convectional or mechanically. One of the mechanical types is the Melkassa Sheller. When using it, the feeding process is labor-intensive and it is not suitable for operator. To solve that, development of feed for Melkassa maize Sheller is the best solution. The developed conveyor consists of: frame, bearings, rotating belts, pulleys, a side cover and lower hopper. To know the effect of conveyor the evaluation is done by comparing manual and conveyor feed with completely randomized design. At the end, the economic cost of the analysis is done. Performance evaluation in terms of shelling capacity, efficiency, seed breakage, fuel consumption, and labor requirement. The tests were carried out on a Melkassa maize sheller, maize variety (Melkasa-II) and a moisture content of 12.3 percent. The capacity of the Sheller is 7518 kg per hour, with a fuel consumption of 2.685 litres per hour when feeding with a conveyor and 6248 kg per hour and 2.0678 litres per hour without conveyor feeding. The seed breakage during test feed with conveyor was 0.21 % and 0.22 % without conveyor feed. Using a feed conveyor can increase threshing capacity, reduce drudgery, save time and energy, and reduce risk