Integrated Coconut Shell Carbonizer-Pulvirizer

This project presents the design, fabrication, and evaluation of an Integrated Coconut Shell Carbonizer-Pulverizer, a mechanical device developed to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of coconut shell waste processing. The machine combines two essential operations carbonization and pulverizationinto a single integrated system, reducing manual handling and streamlining charcoal production for briquette manufacturing.

The carbonizer component utilizes a horizontal drum kiln designed to convert coconut shells into charcoal through controlled carbonization, while the pulverizer employs a hammer-type crushing mechanism to transform the resulting charcoal into fine powder suitable for briquette production. The design was inspired by existing carbonization and pulverization technologies, incorporating features that enhance heat distribution, processing efficiency, and operational safety.

Performance testing was conducted using 10 kg, 15 kg, and 20 kg batches of coconut shells. Results showed an average carbonization time of 39.3 minutes, producing an average charcoal yield of 3.99 kg, while the pulverization process achieved an average processing time of 17.6 minutes and produced 3.6 kg of pulverized charcoal. Technical evaluation by experts and community respondents rated the device as Highly Acceptable in design (weighted mean = 4.52) and Excellent in capability (weighted mean = 4.58).

The developed machine offers a practical solution for small- and medium-scale charcoal briquette producers by reducing labor requirements, improving product consistency, minimizing waste, and promoting the sustainable utilization of agricultural residues. The study contributes to the advancement of renewable energy technologies and environmentally responsible biomass processing systems in coconut-producing communities.