Design and Fabrication of Engine-driven Maize De-husking and Threshing Machine

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dc.contributor.authorKimuli, Herman
dc.date.accessioned2026-06-17T14:20:14Z
dc.date.available2026-06-17T14:20:14Z
dc.date.issued2026-06-17
dc.descriptionDissertation
dc.description.abstractTraditionally, maize Dehusking and threshing were done using manual methods, which are time-consuming and tedious, and they continue because of the low incomes of maize growers in Uganda. The mechanical method of using a combine harvester is faster, highly efficient, and increases maize production while reducing maize losses. However, it is very expensive, and few or no medium- and small-scale farmers can afford it in Uganda. To overcome this problem, there was a need to design a simple machine that performs the same purpose but cheaper than the combine harvester. The main objective of this work was to design and fabricate a simple, affordable, engine-powered maize dehusking and threshing machine. The method adopted involved selecting an engine suitable for the operation. Based on the available engine, the mechanical part was fabricated to work with the engine. The maize husks were effectively detached from the maize by two spirals and two rollers in the design, and the kernels were detached by spikes in the shelling unit. Choosing materials that are long-lasting and resistant to hot environments, maintaining food safety, and maximizing mechanical efficiency were important design factors. The research methodologies employed were research design, data collection, the design of a maize de-husking and threshing machine using Solid Works software, engineering textbooks, work preparation, manufacturing fabrication, process, and work testing. Durable, corrosion-resistant materials, such as mild steel with a food-safe coating, wire meshes, a shelling unit, and certain parts that come into direct contact with the seeds, were used during fabrication. Performance evaluation yielded a dehusking efficiency of 82.1% and a threshing efficiency of 94%, with a throughput capacity of 117.14 kg/hour and fuel consumption of 1.5 liters per hour. Financial analysis showed a positive Net Present Value (UGX 35,167,418), a Profitability Index of 17.8, and a payback period of approximately 2 months and 4 days, demonstrating economic viability
dc.description.sponsorshipDr. Kavuma Chris
dc.identifier.citationKimuli, H (2026) Design and Fabrication of Engine-driven Maize De-husking and Threshing Machine.
dc.identifier.urihttps://bdears.busitema.ac.ug/handle/123456789/6210
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherBusitema University
dc.titleDesign and Fabrication of Engine-driven Maize De-husking and Threshing Machine
dc.typeThesis
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