Introduction to engineering properties.pptx

Introduction to engineering properties of agricultural prodcuts

1. INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING PROPERTIES OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS Dr.Johnson

2. I. Overview A. Importance of Engineering Properties in Agriculture Understanding the physical and mechanical properties of agricultural products is crucial for: Designing efficient machinery and equipment. Ensuring optimal handling, processing, and storage. Maximizing yield and quality. Minimizing losses and waste. B. Scope of the Lecture Introduction to key engineering properties of agricultural products. Application of these properties in farm machinery design and operation.

3. II. Physical Properties of Agricultural Products Size and Shape Determination of average size and shape variability. Implications for equipment design and capacity estimation. Density and Specific Gravity Definition and measurement techniques. Impact on storage, transportation, and processing operations. Porosity Understanding the void spaces within agricultural materials. Influence on airflow, drying rates, and storage conditions.

4. III. Mechanical Properties of Agricultural Products Strength Properties Compression, tensile, and shear strength. Importance in handling, harvesting, and processing operations. Friction Characteristics Coefficient of friction and its significance in machinery operation. Minimizing losses and energy consumption through friction management. Deformation Behavior Elastic and plastic deformation under applied loads. Implications for equipment design and structural integrity.

5. IV. Moisture-Related Properties Moisture Content Measurement methods and significance in storage and processing. Impact on product quality, shelf life, and post-harvest losses. Hygroscopicity Absorption and desorption characteristics of agricultural materials. Considerations for handling, packaging, and storage.

6. V. Thermal Properties Thermal Conductivity Heat transfer characteristics of agricultural products. Applications in drying, thermal processing, and storage. Specific Heat Heat storage capacity and temperature change characteristics. Influence on drying kinetics and energy requirements.

7. VI. Electrical Properties Conductivity Electrical conductivity and its relation to moisture content. Applications in sorting, grading, and quality assessment. Dielectric Properties Permittivity and dielectric loss factor. Importance in microwave processing and quality evaluation.

8. VII. Chemical Properties pH Value Measurement and significance in processing and storage. Influence on enzymatic reactions and microbial growth. Chemical Composition Determination of major components (e.g., carbohydrates, proteins, lipids). Implications for nutritional value and processing techniques.

9. VIII. Conclusion Recap of Key Points Understanding the engineering properties of agricultural products is essential for efficient machinery design and operation. Sharma and Mukesh (2010) and Principles of Agricultural Machines (2nd Edition) provide valuable insights into this field. Importance in Agriculture Optimizing handling, processing, and storage operations. Enhancing product quality, yield, and profitability. Future Directions Continued research and innovation in agricultural engineering. Integration of advanced technologies for sustainable farming practices.