Development and Performance Evaluation of Papaya Shredding and Squeezing Machine for Small-Scale Atchara Producers

Abstract

The major goal of this research was to design and build a papaya shredding and squeezing equipment for small-scale atchara (pickle) producers in Batangas. The research followed the CDIO methodology, addressing knowledge, technical, and software needs in the conception and design phases, followed by hardware considerations in the implementation phase. The final machine included a shredding chamber, a squeezing component, and a control system, and it outperformed current machines in terms of shredding and squeezing efficiency. The research found the best input loads and operating speeds for the shredder and squeezer, resulting in a significant reduction in processing time. The squeezing time was determined to be more than three times faster than existing equipment, but the shredding efficiency beat standard grating machines significantly. Food safety tests revealed that the finished product was free of E. Coli and Salmonella bacteria that fulfill quality criteria. The successful construction of an efficient, safe, and cost-effective papaya processing machine in this study answers a crucial need for small-scale atchara producers in Batangas, increasing production and product quality, which can assist the local food processing industry greatly.