the design of equipment for processing of millets and coarse grains:

Thesis Abstract

Millets and coarse grains are an important source of nutrition for many communities in India and Africa. However, traditional processing methods are laborious and lead to significant post-harvest losses. This project focuses on designing affordable equipment for mechanical processing of millets and coarse grains like finger millet, pearl millet, sorghum and maize. Various unit operations involved in processing such as threshing, winnowing, grading and polishing will be mechanized. Prototypes of the equipment will be developed and tested with farmer and entrepreneur groups. The equipment design will focus on low cost, energy efficiency and ease of operation and repair. It is expected that the mechanized processing will help reduce drudgery for women, improve recovery rates, produce quality grains and boost small business opportunities in the sector.