Development of a block forming machine For coconut peat media

Abstract

Biodegradable planting media made from non-plastic material have grown in popularity as they play a part in reducing waste problems. However, it is vital to conduct investigations into their production processes, plant-growing and biodegradable properties, and limitations, including the efficiency of block forming machines. Therefore, the present study aimed to develop a machine for forming block coconut peat media and test its efficiency. The experiment was conducted in three stages: 1) developing a coconut peat medium block forming machine equipped with a hydraulic system to control its functions and force transfer, 2) assessing the block forming machine by determining the weight, biodegradability rate, and firmness of the media produced, and 3) drawing conclusions regarding the efficiency of the block forming machine and the properties of desirable coconut peat media. It was found that the block forming machine developed could form 360 coconut peat media per hour on average and operate continuously for six hours per day on average. In addition, the coconut peat media produced had a top diameter of 5.90 in, a bottom diameter of 4.70 in, and a height of 4.7 in on average. Based the findings, it is recommended that the coconut peat media be mixed from 500 g of coconut peat, 500 g of soil, and 1,000 g of binding material at the ratio of 1: 1: 2 and the compressive force of 6 t since such parameters are likely to contribute to a desirable level of firmness and biodegradability conducive to cultivation.