Performance Evaluation of Rice Puffing Machine with LPG Heating System
Mahantesh G. *
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Mathad P. F.
AICRP ON PHET, Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Siddhram N. D.
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Swati
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Udaykumar N.
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Sudha Devi G.
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Ramappa K. T.
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
Swapna
Department of Processing and Food Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study evaluated the performance of a novel rice puffing machine equipped with an LPG heating system, using IR-64 rice variety. Optimization of puffing temperature (210°C) and heating cylinder speed (35 rpm) yielded maximum puffing capacity (45 kg/hr), puffing efficiency (89.30%), and expansion ratio (346.00%). Economic analysis revealed a cost of production of Rs. 41.50 per kg of puffed rice, with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.45:1. The results demonstrate the machine's potential for small-scale entrepreneurs and start-up businesses in the puffed rice industry, offering improved efficiency, hygiene, and profitability.
Keywords: Rice puffing, puffed rice, performance evaluation, puffing efficiency, puffing capacity