Design and production of bitter leaf washing machine for small and medium scale bitter leaf processing

Abstract

Bitter leaf has been proven to be one of the most sort after edible leaves, especially within the sub-Sahara Africa due to its medicinal values. However the process of removing the bitter taste before use is tasking. This work was geared towards addressing this challenges. The work designed and produced a bitter leaf washing machine for small and medium scale bitter leaf processing. The machine consist majorly of the washing chamber, washing drum and an electric motor. The machine was powered with 1.5 hp electric motor. The machine has the capacity of 23kg/hour and 18kg/hour, for washing fresh and shredded bitter leaves respectively. It also has a throughput capacities of 80.6 % and 82.6 % for fresh and shredded bitter leaves respectively. The washing process reduced the bitter leaves to an average sizes of 40 – 50 mm. Hence, it is recommended that leaves be allowed to shred after plucking before washing. The throughput and even efficiencies obtained shows that there lesser loss of materials while washing shredded bitter leaves, compared to washing fresh leaves. The machine was produced with locally sourced materials, thereby making it cost effective. The machine is therefore recommended for small and medium scale bitter leaf processing.