Development of Chicken De-Feathering Machine

Authors

  • B. V. Omidiji Obafemi Awolowo University
  • H. A. Owolabi Obafemi Awolowo University
  • A. A. Oyenuga Obafemi Awolowo University
  • A. A. Adeleke Obafemi Awolowo University

Keywords:

De-feathering, Chicken, Pluckers, Feather, Plate and Scalding

Abstract

This paper presents the design and fabrication of an electrically-operated chicken de-feathering machine using stainless steel, mild steel, elastomer feather pluckers and electric motor as major materials. The electric motor drives the feather plate (to which the feather pluckers are attached) on which the chicken carcass is placed hence spinning the carcass as it rotates. The feathers are removed as the carcass spins against the rotating feather pluckers and stationary pluckers on the drum by friction effect of the feathers and pluckers. The fabricated machine was tested and took 10 seconds and 6 seconds for chicken carcass scalded at temperatures 80oC and 90oC respectively; removing all the feathers without any damage to its skin at both instances. It is therefore concluded that the performance of a chicken de-feathering machine depends on scalding temperature, and the duration of de-feathering.

Author Biographies

B. V. Omidiji, Obafemi Awolowo University

Department of Mechanical Engineering

H. A. Owolabi, Obafemi Awolowo University

Department of Mechanical Engineering

A. A. Oyenuga, Obafemi Awolowo University

Department of Mechanical Engineering

A. A. Adeleke, Obafemi Awolowo University

Department of Mechanical Engineering

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Published

2019-01-02