Abstract

                                A belt type feeding unit was developed as an attachment to power operated groundnut stripper. Performance of the stripper with feeding unit was evaluated at different belt speeds and feed rates. Stripping capacity of the machine increased with increase in feeding belt speed and feed rate. Stripping efficiency decreased with increase in feeding belt speed and feed rate. Pod damage increased with the increase in feed rate. Damage to the stripped vines was negligible when using the stripper with belt feeding attachment. The machine ensured safety of the operators' hands during operation. A maximum stripping capacity of 40 kg h-1 was achieved at 8.48 m min-1 feeding belt speed with 1.5 kg min-1 feed rate. The corresponding pod damage was 8 per cent.

Key words : Groundnut stripper, Feeding unit, Operators' safety, Stripping efficiency, Pod damage.