Automatic Drying of Coco Pith Using Heated Coil in Coir Industry

In the coir manufacturing industry, the production of coir involves multiple stages, such as the gathering and preparation of coconut husks, separation of the fibers from the husks, and the cleaning and drying of the fibers. Among these steps, the drying of coco pith is particularly important. Traditionally, coco pith is dried outdoors, relying on suitable weather conditions and a large land area for even spreading. This method also necessitates manual labor throughout the drying process. Another option is to use coir pith dryer machines with external heat sources, but they require the burning of coal and wood, as well as extensive infrastructure for pipelines and conveyors. To overcome these challenges, a new solution has been proposed, which involves a machine that combines a screw conveyor and a heater. This machine transports the coco pith through a screw conveyor while subjecting it to heat from a band type heater, resulting in rapid drying. The process starts by depositing the coco pith into a conical hopper positioned above the screw conveyor, which is powered by an AC motor. A humidity sensor placed over the hopper captures the moisture level of the coir, feeding the information to a microcontroller. Based on this input, the temperature of the band type heater is regulated to achieve the optimal drying temperature for the coco pith. Implementing this innovative solution can enhance efficiency, leading to an extended product lifespan and reduced spoilage. Moreover, the utilization of a machine that combines a screw conveyor and a heater can substantially decrease the reliance on manual labor and favorable weather conditions, presenting an environmentally friendly alternative.