Development of Cassava Frying Machine for Local Garri Processors

Abstract

The fabricated garri frying machine was developed to obviate the problems and drudgery, high energy demand and low capacity associated with traditional method of frying cassava pulp into garri. The components parts of the machine include electric gear motor (prime mover), sets of gears speed reduction transmission system, frying component, mixing paddles system, delivery chute, delivery chute cover, stirrer shaft, machine frame support, heating chamber, bearings.  The main frame is made of angle bars mild steel of 40mm by 20mm and 4mm thickness and serves as the main supporting structure upon which other component parts of the machine are mounted. The cylindrical frying chamber is made of stainless-steel metal sheet of 2 mm thickness, 283mm diameters which serves as inlet for sieved cassava mash into the frying chamber and exit for vapour during operation preventing formation of vapour condensation within the chamber and also provides means for process inspection. The frying chamber is attached to the base where the heat source is located (cooking gas). The fried cassava mash (garri) discharge chute is located down side of the frying chamber. An electric gear motor (single phase 1.5kw/1Hp with 700rpm) fitted with sets of gears to reduce speed, this was used to propel the frying paddle shaft and paddle to allow for the slow and gradual movement of the garri within the frying chamber. The machine was evaluated to determine the efficiency. The machine efficiency is 93.3 % with a capacity of 6kg/hr. The fabricated garri frying does not require technical expertise and can effectively address the challenges associated with traditional garri frying which is ease to use and maintain.