Design and Analysis of a Palm Nut, Kernel, and Shell Separator Using Quadratic Projectile Drag Principles
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Separating cracked palm nut components kernel, shell, and uncracked nut is challenging due to overlapping physical properties. This study presents the design and analysis of a separator based on the quadratic projectile drag principle, exploiting differences in mass, density, and drag-to-mass ratio to achieve spatial separation via controlled projectile motion under air resistance. Numerical simulations were performed at two initial velocities (10 m/s and 15 m/s) and five launch angles (10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 45°). Projectile motion equations with quadratic air drag were solved to determine component trajectories and identify optimal separation conditions. At 10 m/s, separation was minimal at low angles (10°–20°) but improved at 30°–40° due to extended flight time enhancing drag differentiation; 45° produced maximum range but increased kernel-nut overlap. At 15 m/s, 30° yielded the clearest separation: shells landed first, nuts at intermediate distance, and kernels farthest. Higher angles (40°–45°) caused trajectory convergence, reducing separation efficiency. The findings demonstrate that projectile separation governed by quadratic drag is feasible for palm nut processing. A 30° launch at 15 m/s is optimal, providing a scientific basis for aerodynamic design and mechanical optimization. Implementing this approach can significantly increase separation efficiency, reduce kernel loss, and enhance the productivity of palm nut processing operations
Institution: Projects Development Institute
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7131817043
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: