Reduction in Damage to Dried Sultana During Removal of Cap-Stems

In order to improve the quality of Australian dried sultanas by reducing mechanical damage to berries during cap-stemming, an investigation into important machine settings and design parameters was conducted on a full size (15 t/h) experimental coning machine. In 1992 cone speed, cone clearance, fruit feed rate, angle and length of outer cone were investigated at two levels in trial 1. Eight combinations of rub-bar type and number were also investigated in trial 1. Trial 2 was designed based on the findings of trial 1. This paper presents details of 1992 trials with results. Further trials will be conducted in 1993 over a wider range of cone speeds and clearances, fruit temperatures and types.