In the heart of Thailand, a quiet revolution is taking place, one that could reshape the agricultural landscape and bolster the energy sector. Pakpoom Jaichomphu, a Bachelor of Science in Technical Education student from the Faculty of Engineering at Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (RMUTL) in Tak, has developed a corn shelling machine tailored for the Ban Pa Dang Tai Community. This innovation, detailed in the RMUTL Engineering Journal, is not just a local solution but a potential game-changer for corn processing and bioenergy production.
The machine, a marvel of simplicity and efficiency, consists of two main parts. The first part removes grain from the whole corn and transfers it to a sieve, which separates the grain from the corncob. The second part is the power source system, driving a V-belt system with 2 Hp and 1,450 rpm. “The machine is designed to be robust yet easy to use, making it ideal for community-level processing,” Jaichomphu explains.
Testing the machine with “PACIFIC 339” corn, which contains 15% humidity, Jaichomphu found that the optimal speed for the machine is 360 rpm. At this speed, the machine can handle 20 kg of corn in an average time of 30.74 seconds. The yield is impressive, with 85.80% of the grain successfully separated. The machine’s efficiency is further highlighted by its ability to process at least 1,500 kg of corn per hour.
The satisfaction assessment of the machine was equally promising. Most respondents were satisfied with the machine’s appearance and its appropriateness for community use, scoring an average of 4.93. While the satisfaction level for minimal contamination of corn was lower, at 3.37, the overall average score of the machine was 4.51, indicating a positive reception.
The implications of this research extend beyond the local community. Efficient corn shelling machines can significantly reduce processing time and labor costs, making corn a more viable option for bioenergy production. As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, innovations like Jaichomphu’s could play a crucial role in shaping the future of the energy sector.
“This machine is not just about shelling corn; it’s about empowering communities and contributing to a sustainable future,” Jaichomphu says. His work, published in the RMUTL Engineering Journal (translated to English as Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Engineering Journal), serves as a testament to the power of local innovation and its potential to drive global change.
As we look to the future, the question arises: how might this research inspire further developments in the field? Could we see a wave of community-level processing innovations that not only enhance agricultural efficiency but also contribute to the global energy transition? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—Pakpoom Jaichomphu’s corn shelling machine is a step in the right direction.