Agricultural Engineering International (E-Journal, CIGR - International Commission of Agricultural Engineering)
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Whole shoot gas exchange and stomatal traits in maize under water drought as related to its growth
Full text linkLeaf area is a functional characteristic that can be used as a key indicator of responses to global environmental changes. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of drought on the growth, leaf area, gas exchange, and leaf anatomy of Zea mays L. The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse with controlled temperature. The plants were exposed to three water conditions: field capacity (FC), 75% of FC, and 50% of FC, using 10 replicates of one plant each. Drought reduced the dry mass of vegetative organs, which slowed plant growth. This helped the water potential remain unchanged, indicating the stability of the partial water pressure. In addition, the number of leaves, leaf width, leaf thickness, and mesophyll area were reduced by drought and severely decreased the leaf area. No significant changes were detected in gas exchange per unit area, but gas exchange in the whole plant was lower indicating the necessity to evaluate this trait in maize. Drought reduced the stomatal index on the adaxial side and the total number of stomata and stomatal pore area on both the abaxial and adaxial sides also indicating that the responses of whole leaf area are important to maize studies under drought
Fabrication and performance evaluation of a solar-powered multipurpose agricultural machine
Full text link- In Bangladesh, wheat is a vital cereal that is second to rice for food, calorie, and protein intake. Production has decreased significantly over the past two decades because of the loss of arable land, but demand has increased, leading to an increase in wheat imports. The improvement of seed sowing practices is necessary to meet demand and reduce import dependency in wheat production. To preserve crops from insects and to maximize production, spraying pesticides and cutting grass are crucial tasks in the agricultural sector. The purpose of this endeavor was to fabricate and invent a solar powered manually operated multipurpose agricultural machine to determine the technical performance of the machine. USD 360.87 was the total amount spent on fabrication for the solar-powered multipurpose agricultural machine. The seed sowing rate was 106.36 kg/ha. The sprayer used 450 L per hectare as its application rate. Solar-powered multipurpose agricultural machines have a theoretical and effective field capacity of 0.12 hectare per hour and 0.1 hectare per hour respectively. Solar-powered multipurpose agricultural machine has a field efficiency of 83%, with a mean velocity of 1.31 km/h. The cutting effectiveness of the machine was 78%. The machine’s operating cost was USD 8.80 ha−1. The cost of operating a solar-powered multipurpose agricultural machine for one year was USD 506.83, which included a 0.18 capital recovery factor, USD 61.84 investment Utilization, and yearly expenditures
Evaluation of Remote-Controlled spraying rover in high-density apple orchards
Full text linkThe study evaluates the performance, effectiveness and efficiency of the remote-controlled spraying rover in comparison to traditional sprayers for high-density apple orchards in Kashmir region of India. The analysis process involved spray pattern, Swath width, discharge rate, average droplet size, leaf coverage area, uniformity coefficient and field efficiency. It revealed that forward speed, boom height, and pump pressure significantly affect droplet characteristics in spraying. Higher pressure produced smaller droplets, while lower boom height and slower speed resulted in larger droplets. Optimal mean droplet sizes were found at 0.96 µm (top) and 29.47 µm (bottom). Droplet distribution and leaf coverage were influenced similarly, with the middle section having the highest droplet count and coverage. Uniformity coefficients varied from 0.5 to 0.94, showing optimal conditions at specific parameter combinations. Discharge rate responded to pressure changes, swath width and work rate increased with higher pressure and boom height. Field efficiency ranged from 82.12 to 82.73%. Optimized parameters of forward speed of 0.61 km.h-1, boom height of 135 cm, and pump pressure of 1.45 kg.cm-2, enhanced overall efficiency for agricultural spraying
Optimization of Biogas Production from Co-Digestion of Sugarcane Trash Blended with Sugarcane Vinasse
Full text linkBiogas, a critical form of biofuel, is produced through the anaerobic digestion of biomass. This process not only provides renewable energy and fertilizer but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and repurposes agricultural and industrial waste. Co-digesting sugarcane trash with sugarcane vinasse has the potential to enhance biogas production while mitigating environmental impacts. However, the technical feasibility of this blend and its potential biogas yield from pre- and post-treatment processes require further validation. This study aimed to optimize biogas production by co-digesting sugarcane trash and vinasse. Feedstock characterization showed an optimal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and adequate moisture content, confirming its suitability for anaerobic digestion. Using an orthogonal array design, the study optimized parameters such as mixed ratios, temperature, and retention time. The optimal conditions for biogas production were identified as a 2:1 sugarcane trash-to-vinasse ratio, a temperature of 45°C, and a retention time of 20 days, significantly improving biogas yield. Analysis revealed that nitrogen and hydrogen from vinasse were crucial for enhancing methane production. Proximate analysis confirmed the low ash content and high volatile matter in sugarcane trash, making it ideal for biogas production. The study recommends managing moisture levels, selecting low-sulfur feedstock blends, and further research on microbial optimization and sustainability assessments for commercial-scale biogas productio
The Improvement and validation of two-wheel tractor operated potato planter for profitable potato production
No full textPotato planting operation are carried out manually, which are time consuming, costly and labour intensive. To address the issue of potato planting, a power tiller operated potato planter was improved in Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). Modifications were done on potato cup, seed hopper, bed shaper and furrow opener. The performance of the planter was evaluated at BARI, Gazipur, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Jashore; Tuber Crops Research Station (TCRS), Bogura and Breeders Seed Production Station (BSPS), Debiganj, Panchagarh during Rabi (dry winter) season of 2017-20. Effective field capacity and field efficiency of the planter were 0.11 ha/h and 78.57%, respectively. Yield of BARI Alu-36 at BARI, Gazipur were not varied with the planting methods. Potato planter saved 89% labour requirement and 81% planting cost, respectively compare to manual potato planting method. Though potato yield was not varied between planted with potato planter and manual methods at farmer’s field in Bogura but the statistically higher yield was found in machine planted field at TCRS, Bogura with BARI Alu-41. But yield of BARI Alu-41 in machine planted fields was not varied with planting methods at farmer’s field in Jashore. Yield of BARI Alu-36 at RARS, Jashore was not varied with the planting methods. But yields of BARI Alu-36 were higher in machine planted plot than the manual method at farmer’s field of Jashore Sadar and Jhikorgachha in Jashore. Net return from BARI potato planter was Taka 111693 per season. The payback period and benefit cost ratio (BCR)of the planter were 1.61 year and 1.17, respectively
Commercializing Mechanical Rice Transplanter in Bangladesh: A Review
Full text linkLabor scarcity, especially during peak periods, significantly challenges Bangladesh's agriculture. The widespread adoption of mechanical transplanting in rice cultivation holds the potential to address this challenge. Commercializing this technology could open significant opportunities for small and marginal farmers, ultimately bolstering food security in Bangladesh. This review paper assesses the economic feasibility of mechanical transplanting compared to manual methods. The study involved an extensive literature review of relevant research literature, journals, conference papers and academic presentations to gather and analyze pertinent data. Manual operated transplanters, particularly the riding type are well suited for small scale farmers due to their user friendliness and higher field capacity. Eight row transplanters are recommended for more significant operations or business oriented farms, surpassing their four and six row counterparts in field capacity, efficiency and operational speed. Within the category of walking type transplanters, the six row variant is more fuel efficient than its four row counterpart which excels in functional utility. Mechanical transplanting is a cost effective and advantageous practice in Bangladesh, delivering higher yields at a reduced cost. The availability of an affordable and accessible transplanter is imperative in the Bangladeshi context.
 
Drying characteristics and nutritional quality of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) leaves and calyces during infrared drying
Full text linkRoselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is a rich medicinal plant, therefore, the effects of infrared drying on the drying characteristics, colour and nutritional quality (vitamin C and carotenoid contents) of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) leaves and calyces were investigated. Roselle leaves and calyces were subjected to infrared drying at temperature of 80 and 110oC and infrared power of 1000W. The experimental data obtained during infrared drying were subjected to five drying models namely, Newton, Page, Wang and Singh, Henderson and Pabis, and Logarithm models. The results showed that the drying time for Roselle leaves and calyces were less than 60 and 80 min, respectively. Page model best described the drying behavior of Roselle leaves and calyces during infrared drying. The moisture diffusivity of Roselle leaves and calyces ranged from 7.49 to 1.16 m2s-1 and 6.13 to 6.91 m2s-1, respectively. As a result of the short drying time, the vitamin C and carotenoid content of Roselle leaves and calyces were significantly preserved. However, the infrared temperature led to a high total colour change of the samples, particularly at 110oC. This work therefore showed that infrared drying is a good drying technique that could be adopted by the food industries involved in the drying of Roselle leaves and calyces
A Design, Development and Performance Evaluation of Tractor Drawn Tie Ridger: Design, Development and Performance Evaluation of Tractor Drawn Tie Ridger
No full textTie ridging is one of the soil and water conservation practices. It controls runoff, prevents erosion, conserves moisture, and thereby increases crop production. There is a necessity to have an implement that would form a ridge to conserve rainwater in dryland conditions. At present in Ethiopia, tie-ridging operation is conducted using human and draft animal power sources. Tie-ridging operation conducted using human and animal draft power is labor-intensive, tedious, and time-consuming. Since the implement was drawn by animals, its field capacity and efficiency were limited. To solve the above problem, this study aimed to design, develop and evaluate the performance of a tractor-drawn tie ridger capable of tie ridging at desired depth and space. The tractor-drawn tie ridger would be developed using locally available materials and consists of the mainframe, central driving wheel, tie ridger, furrow opener, and shank. The following activities were carried out, material selection, design of all component parts, fabrication and assembling the component parts, performance evaluation, data collection, data organizing and data analysis to draw meaning full conclusion. The performances of tractor-drawn tie ridger were evaluated in the laboratory and field. In a laboratory test, the machine was checked for its specifications and operations. The average theoretical field capacity, effective field capacity and field efficiency of the machine were 0.94, 0.67 and 71.24 % respectively. The maximum draft required for the implement is 1,135.23 N. The 40 hp tractor was used to drive this implement. The average depth and width of tie ridge were observed at 22.92 cm and 34.29 cm respectively. The cost of fabrication of the tie ridger was estimated to be approximately about 19,683.45 ETB. Test results in-field evaluation of the tie ridger indicated that it could form tie ridges of 2.78 m × 34.29 cm size. Per hour, cost of operation of tie-ridger is 220.12 ETB/hr
Effect of drying temperature on drying kinetics and quality of spring groundnut (arachishypogaea l.): Drying of groundnut
No full textGroundnut pods contain a higher amount of moisture at the time of harvesting, which causes fungal infestation and drying play an important role to achieve a safe moisture content. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of drying temperature on the drying behavior and acceptability of models of drying to prophesy the drying pattern of the groundnut pods. Forced air circulation hybrid convective-cum solar dryer and sun drying method was used to dry the groundnut pods from initial moisture of 124.97±1.34% (dry basis) to a moisture content of 8.75±0.35% (dry basis). Five mathematical models were used to forecast the drying kinetics and furthermore, moisture diffusivity was determined. The different physico-chemical parameters viz., moisture content, free fatty acids, oil content, protein, ash and colour value were ascertained before and after drying of the pods. It was observed that the drying time was less for the mechanical drying method and the best-suited model for thin layer drying of groundnut pods was the logarithmic model. The higher value of R2 (0.984) and lower values of SSE (0.0015) and RMSE (0.0391) was achieved in the page model for the open sun drying method. The value of effective moisture diffusivity was highest (7.1517 x 10-10 m2/s) for a 70oC mechanical dryer. The quality parameters like oil, protein, and free fatty acids were increased after the drying process irrespective of dying temperature and method, but the increment was more pronounced at 70oC.
Key Words: Groundnut pods, drying kinetics, quality, and moisture diffusivit
Vibration Intensity and its Variation on Road-transported Agricultural Materials - A Review
Full text linkThe transportation of fresh agricultural material is a challenging task that can lead to considerable losses due to vibrations and shock stresses. This study reviews 55 articles published between 1985 and 2023 to gain insights into the impact of these factors on the damage of agricultural material. The review reveals several factors that affect vibration levels during transportation, including the suspension system's type, truck speed, road profile, payload capacity, stack height, and packaging material. However, previous research has examined these factors independently, and their relative impact on the vibration intensity remains unclear. Therefore, we suggest a multi-factor assessment of transport vibration intensity to identify the most influential factors and reduce transport-related losses effectively. Overall, our study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to transport-related losses to minimize agricultural product damages during transportation. Our findings have practical implications for the transportation industry and can be used to inform the development of better transport systems that minimize the loss of agricultural products