Mechanical Behavior of Enset (Ensete ventricosum) Pulp under Compression Loading – A Multipurpose Product in Ethiopia

Abstract

The mechanical behavior of Enset pulp commonly known as "kocho" in Ethiopia was examined under compression loading test involving a compressive device and a pressing vessel. The pulp was pressed at initial pressing height 70 mm at deformation values ranging between 5 mm and 30 mm and pressing speed 10 mm/min. Applying the tangent curve equation, the mathematical description of the dependency between compressive force and appropriate deformation of Enset pulp was described. The maximal yield of liquid contained in the pulp and the liquid emerged during the pressing process were determined. The dependency between liquid emerged and deformation was mathematically described, which showed a linear function. It was further observed that the liquid contained in the pulp surfaced throughout the pressing process. Deformation energy, volume energy and gradient volume energy in relation to deformation were respectively calculated. It was seen that deformation of Enset pulp at 20 mm was energy efficient compared with deformations lower or greater than 20 mm. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONThe theoretical linear model determined in this present study for the description of mechanical behavior of Enset pulp under compression loading provides useful information for application in nonlinear pressing involving screw presses for the design and development of simple technology for optimization of energy requirement in Enset pulp processing and other important products. This new technology when developed would contribute substantially to the improvement of Ethiopian's and other African countries' food security.