PhilMech Launches Mechanized Carrot Washer

The Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), in collaboration with the Bureau of Agricultural Research, has launched a prototype machine that can wash and dry carrots and other root crops thereby reducing the drudgery of traditional washing.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala recently led the launching of the machine during the Highland Vegetable Investment Forum cum Trade Fair at the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center (BAPTC).

The mechanical washer is capable of washing 1-2 tons per hour (hr) of carrots and 3 tons/hr of potatoes. It can also wash different root crops of any size.

PhilMech Executive Director Rex Bingabing noted that this equipment can help reduce the labor requirements of traditional washing by 80%.

“Compared to the traditional washing of carrots, the mechanized washer reduces water consumption because of the control mechanism in the spray nozzles secured along the pressure pipes,” he said.

Bingabing also explained that the cleaning action is through tumbler rotation and spraying of water into the tubers inside the tumbler.

Engr. Donald Mateo of PHilmech developed the carrot washer with main parts consisting of the stainless steel frame, tumbler, cover, washer, inlet conveyor, discharge conveyor and dryer.

“This was created to help reduce post harvest losses by 20%,” Mateo said.

He added that through machine, farmers are able to sell better quality produce.

“This (machine) will enable them to have A-quality end-products since manual washing may damage the root crop and reduce the shelf life of the commodity while at the retail market.”

The biggest machine prototype is made of stainless materials and measures 6.5 meter x 1.25 meter x 2 meter. It costs P1 million. The smaller model made of Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) costs P200, 000.

BAPTC aims to set up at least 12 machines expected to produce quality products and make transactions a lot easier. (DA)