Structural Analysis of a Pedal-Powered Maize Sheller
Abstract
In Ghana, maize is one of the highest-yielding cash crops, but the supply chain is severely
hampered by the lack of access to machines for processing. This study conducts a structural
analysis on a low-cost, pedal-powered maize sheller, designed and fabricated by the author
and found to operate with a high shelling rate and low kernel damage. To inform an
improved iteration of the design, structural analysis was carried out along the lines of
reliability of the bearing that was used, factor of safety for both static and fatigue loads,
weight optimization, and trend forecast for shelling performances. Using a reliability of
90%, a 180409 Instrument Precision ball bearing was calculated to have a life cycle of
3468.44 hrs which fell in the range needed for agricultural equipment. Moreover, the static
and fatigue analysis revealed yield strength values that were higher than the applied stresses.
As such, they were deemed safe, except for the bicycle cleats, which needed fillets to reduce
stress concentrations. From the weight optimization, it was determined by the author that
one-fourth of the cylinder stand's weight can be removed to save on material without
hampering the assembly's structural integrity. Lastly, using a forecast of shelling trends, a
trade-off was discovered between kernel damage and shelling rate.
Description
Capstone Project submitted to the Department of Engineering, Ashesi University in
partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of a Bachelor of Science degree in
Mechanical Engineering, May 2021
item.page.type
Capstone project
item.page.format
Keywords
Citation
Aggrey, O.A. (2021). Structural Analysis of a Pedal-Powered Maize Sheller. Applied project, Ashesi University, Berekuso. 55pgs.