UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Indigenous Edible Flora and Fauna in the
Province of Abra
Alma B. Segismundo, MAEd
Rolando B. Navarro, Ed.D.
Jocelyn Abaya, Ed.D.
Abstract
Survey and characterization of the indigenous edible flora and fauna in the
province of Abra were taken through a participatory approach with identified key
informants. Data were later presented to the community for validation. Scientific
identification was taken cared of by museum researchers at the National Museum,
Manila. Findings revealed that there were 25 species of flora belonging to 19
families, 15 species of fauna belonging to six classes, and five species of fungi.
In order to increase awareness on the utilization of these important food
crops and animals, a monograph on the indigenous edible flora and fauna of the
province of Abra must be developed. Laws on the protection, conservation, and
management of these indigenous resources should also be promulgated.
Propagation of the
diminishing indigenous edible flora as claimed by the
indigenous people should also be undertaken.
Introduction
Background of the Study
Abra is a landlocked province of the Philippines in the Cordillera Administrative
Region in Luzon. Hemmed in the towering mountain ranges of the Ilocos on the west and
the Cordillera on the east, the province occupies the western portion of the Cordillera
region. It is bounded on the north by Ilocos Norte and the South by Ilocos Sur and
Mountain Province. Towards the east is Kalinga and on the west, the province of Apayao.
As it straddles the Ilocandia and the Cordillera, this province is a melting pot of the
lowland people of dominant Spanish ancestry and the unique ethnicity of the upland
Tingguian tribe.
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Insulated by the mountainous gazebo, nature has remained pristine in Abra. The
province teems with impressive natural resources. More than half of its land are forest
lands which are repository of a myriad of forest products and minerals such as gold, clay
guano, rock phosphate, and cement raw materials. The forest also serves as a habitat of
diverse flora and fauna which are important genetic sources of food, medicine, and other
economic products.
The indigenous knowledge of members of the Tingguian tribe on plant and animal
use has evolved for many generations. These indigenous uses are integrated in every facet
of their lives which include the most basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and other
uses. The everyday life of most of the Tingguians depends on the varied resources obtained
from the forests.
Climate change has tremendously altered the habitats of indigenous plants and
animals thereby affecting their diversity, or even to the loss of many species.
This study is deemed important and meaningful for it will provide the people of the
province of Abra information on the present status of the indigenous edible flora and fauna.
Results of this study will also serve as a basis for the protection and conservation of these
very important natural resources. Furthermore, data would also enable resource managers
and decision-makers to plan and implement rational judgments as to the proper utilization
and disposition of these resources when in danger of depletion.
Objective of the Study
To determine the indigenous edible flora in terms of their common, scientific and
family names, edible fauna in terms of their common name, scientific name, and class, and
fungi in terms of their scientific name.
Review of Related Literature
In the 5-7 million years spent as Aunter-gatherers, humans’ knowledge base has
evolved with the ecosystems within which it existed and has further developed as a result
of historical continuity of local resource dependence. Knowing which mild animals and
plants are palatable and have nutritious content has long been a survival strategy for the
rural poor, indigenous peoples and tribal communities. This information is essential to
supplementing diets when harvests fail due to insect blights, disease, or adverse weather
conditions. Hence, wild nutritional resources are often termed the “hidden harvest.’
Indigenous Edible Flora and Fauna in the Province of Abra
3
In a study conducted by Adekunle (2008) on the diversity and abundance of lesserknown plant species of food and ethnomedicinal potential in tropical rainforest ecosystem
of southwest Nigeria, he found out that most of the plant species (60%) had food and
medicinal values. The relative density and frequency of these species shows that most of
them are rare while others are threatened with extinction.
Colting (2007) documented the indigenous vegetables in the Cordilleras. Results
revealed that there are 49 indigenous vegetables, most of which are prepared for food. The
knowledge on the use of these plants is part of the indigenous knowledge systems and
practice (IKSP) of the indigenous people in the region. The indigenous vegetables show
varying amounts of protein, ash, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The
antioxidants capacity also varied considerably from one kind of vegetable to another.
In an article published by the Philippine Star dated April 18, 2004, farmers in Abra
have a reason to be happy, since their indigenous rice variety, “ballatinaw” now yields
more, through a technology developed by the Department of Agriculture – Phil. Rice
Research Institute (DA-PhilRice).
Methodology
Selection of Sampling Areas
Key Informants
Face to Face Interview
Focus Group Discussion
Direct Observation
Botanical Description
Field and Herbarium Research
Scientific Identification
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UNP Research Journal
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January-December 2010
From the 27 municipalities of Abra, 18 upland municipalities were chosen as
sampling areas. Survey of the indigenous fauna and survey and botanical characterization
of the indigenous flora were undertaken through a participatory approach with the local
folks. Botanical descriptions of the flora were done in their wild state. Herbarium sheets
were also prepared for the flora and fungi species. Scientific identification was done at the
National Museum, Burgos, Manila.
Results and Discussion
Table1. Summary Distribution of Indigenous Edible Flora in Terms of Common Name,
Scientific Name, and Family Name
Common Name
Allagat
Anabiong
Alugbati
Ballatinaw
Biga
Boa
Bugnay
Buri
Bread Fruit
Bulak-bulakan
Coffee
Giant corms
Kakaw
Kalabua
Kalunay
Kamangeg
Lankanas
Pako
Ngalog
Papait
Sabawil
Singkamas
Tabtabukol
Tugi
Wild yam
Scientific Name
Uvaria rufa Blume
Trema Orientalis ( Linn) Blume
Basella alba Linn
Oryza sp.
Calla maxima Blanco
Areca catechu Linn
Antidesma bunius Linn
Corypha rumpii Perr
Artocarpus altilis Forberg
Thespesia sublobata Blanco
Coffeea arabica
Cyrtosperma chamissonis
Theobroma cacao Linn
Ottelia alismoides Linn
Amaranthus spinosus
Disocorea alata
Languas pyramidata Blume
Diplazinm esculentum Retz.
Portulaca oleracea Linn
Mollugo oppositifolia Linn
Mucuna sp
Pachyrrhizus erosus Linn
Boerhaavia diffusa Linn
Dioscorea esculenta Burkill
Dioscorea hispida Dennst
Family
Annonaceae
Lumaceae
Basellaceae
Poaceae
Araceae
Palmae
Euphorbiaceae
Palmae
Moraceae
Malvaceae
Rubiaceae
Araceae
Sterculiaceae
Hydro chariceae
Amaranthaceae
Dioscoreaceae
Zingerberaceae
Athyriaceae
Portulacaceae
Hydrocharitaceae
Leguminosae
Leguminosae
Nyctaginaceae
Dioscoreaceae
Dioscoreaceae
Indigenous Edible Flora and Fauna in the Province of Abra
5
Table 1 shows the twenty-five species of indigenous edible flora which were
documented, belonging to 19 families. All were scientifically identified.
Table 2. Summary Distribution of the Indigenous Edible Fauna in Terms of the Common
Name, Scientific Name, and Class
Common Name
Bennek
Bisukol (Native)
Bunog
Duriken
Frog
Iwet
June Beetle
Kampa
Kuros
Leddeg
Osoos
Palileng
Suso
Tang-al
Udang
Scientific Name
Corbicula fluminea
Ampullaria sp.
Phinogobius gurinus
Melanoides granifera
Rana sp.
Anguilla spp.
Phyllophaga sp.
Platycephalus indicus
Caridina sp.
Syncera sp.
Hyporhampus intermedius
Batygobius sp.
Melanoides tuberculata
Gobius sp.
Macrobrachium rosenbergii
Class
Pelecypoda
Gastropoda
Osteichthyes
Gastropoda
Amphibia
Osteichthyes
Insecta
Osteichthyes
Crustacea
Gastropoda
Osteichthyes
Osteichtyes
Gastropoda
Osteichthyes
Crustaceae
Table 2 shows the fifteen species of indigenous edible fauna, belonging to six
classes. All the animals were identified to the genus buel.
Table 3. Indigenous Edible Fungi in Terms of Common Name and Scientific Name
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Common Name
Common earthball
Jelly fungi
Jew’s ear
“Kuwat”
Straw mushroom
Scientific Name
Scleroderma citrinum
Tremella sp.
Auricularia auricula – judae
Lactarius sp.
Volvariella volvacea
They were only five indigenous edible fungi documented and all were scientifically
indentified.
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UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Conclusion and Future Directions
There are 25 species of indigenous edible flora in the Province of Abra, and they
are distributed into 19 different families, fifteen species of the indigenous edible fauna are
distributed into six classes, and there are five species of indigenous edible fungi.
A monograph on the indigenous edible flora and fauna of the province must be
developed. Laws on the protection and conservation of these very important indigenous
resources should be promulgated, and lastly, propagation of the diminishing indigenous
edible flora should also be done, since overexploitation of such plants can lead to extinction
of certain species if not normally grown as a crop.
References
Adekunle, V. A. J. 2008. Diversity and Abundance Lesser Known Plant Species of Food and
Ethnomedicinal Potential in Tropical Rainforest Ecosystem of Southwest Nigeria. Center for
Env’t and Society. Colchester, United Kingdom.
Balangtod, A. K. and T. D. Balangrod. 2002. Underutilized Plant Resources in Tinoc, Ifugao,
Cordillera Administrative, Luzon Island, Philippines. Philippine Journal of Third World
Studies, Vol. 17.
Colting, Rogelio. 2007. Towards a Sustainable Semi-Temperate Vegetable Production:
Characterization and Propagation of Indigenous Vegetables of the Highland Cordilleras.
Benguet State University. La Trinidad, Benguet.
Indigenous Edible Flora and Fauna in the Province of Abra
7
abuos
pikaw
rabanos
Uvaria rufa
samimit
Lactarius spp
Diplazinm esculentum
Scleroderma citrinum
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UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Yield Performance of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.)
Applied with Varying Amounts of Garlic
(Allium sativum L.) Wastes Concentrates
Floraceli R. Rodillas, MAT
Rommel V. Tabula, MAT
Jocelyn T. Puzon
Abstract
A field experiment was conducted in Naglaoa–an, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos
Sur from January 2, 2010 to March 30, 2010. It aimed to determine the
effectiveness of garlic wastes as fertilizer on the yield of cabbage and to
determine which treatment gives the best result on the yield of cabbage.
The field response of F1KK cabbage was evaluated using the following
treatments: T0 – control (plain water), T1 – 2 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal
of plain water, T2 – 4 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of plain water, and T3 –
6 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of plain water. These treatments were
allocated in their respective plots following the procedures in Randomized
Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications.
Results showed that the effect of applying 6 kg of soaked garlic wastes with
1 gal of water to F1KK cabbage is comparable to the other treatments with 4 kg
of soaked garlic wastes having 1 gal of water and 2 kg of soaked garlic wastes
having 1 gal of water. These promising results observed, however, were
significantly better at .05 level than those obtained from F1KK cabbage applied
with plain water only.
This implies that using soaked garlic wastes would lessen the burden of
farmers in their farming expenses due to its most economical way of using it.
Yield Performance of Cabbage
9
Introduction
Background of the Study
Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) is a heat tolerant hybrid plant which is generally
suited in lowland culture. It matures three (3) months after seeding or 60-70 days after
transplanting and yields about 15-20 tons / ha.
Since Ilocos Region is an agricultural area and the main source of livelihood is
farming, organic fertilizers, on the other hand, are very rare. Most of the farmers used
commercial fertilizer to hasten the growth and development of their crops. But most of
them are complaining due to the high prices of the commercial fertilizers.
At this juncture, organic fertilizer can penetrate the farmers most especially those
who are planting cruciferous crops.
The rapid decline of soil fertility brought about by the total neglects of most crop
producers in restoring the organic matter content of the soil indicate the need for organic
fertilizers. It would, in a way, reduce production cost, help build and maintain soil fertility
aside from the important role it plays in the maintenance of ecological balance.
Today, the potentials of various agricultural wastes as a source of organic fertilizer
are being evaluated.
Obviously, the use of garlic wastes is a likely alternative for the types of organic
wastes which undergo decomposition prior to utilization. However, its value as an organic
fertilizer as well as the effect of cabbage growth and development is not yet well
established.
Objectives of the Study
1. to determine the effectiveness of garlic wastes as fertilizer on the yield of
cabbage.
2. to determine which treatment: T0 – control (plain water), T1 – 2 kg of soaked
garlic wastes at 1 gal of plain water, T2 – 4 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of plain
water, and T3 – 6 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of plain water gives the best result on
the yield of cabbage.
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Materials
1. F1KK cabbage seeds (50 g)
2. Garlic wastes
3. Plain water
Methodology
Experimental Crop
Cabbage – The F1KK Cross, a hybrid variety of cabbage was used in this
study.
Experimental Layout
After thorough land preparation, the area of 216 sq. m. was divided
into 12 equal plots. Then each part was subdivided into three blocks to
represent the three replications. Each block was further subdivided into
four equal plots measuring 2 x 9 m to accommodate the four treatments
with three different areas as blocks. In each block, four uniform sample
plots were chosen on which the four treatments were randomly assigned.
The Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used in this study.
Transplanting the Seedlings
The seedlings of uniform growth were transplanted one (1) month
after sowing. Transplanting in each replication was done late in the
afternoon to prevent the new transplants from wilting. Extra care was
observed in pulling the seedlings to avoid injury.
Watering the Plants
The plants were watered once everyday either in the morning or
late in the afternoon until the plants had fully recovered and were ready for
harvest.
Yield Performance of Cabbage
11
Spraying of Soaked Garlic Wastes Concentrates
To obtain the concentrates, garlic wastes were dried thoroughly
and before they were applied to the cabbage as foliar spray, varied amounts
of garlic wastes diluted with water were soaked within three days. This
was done in weekly intervals.
Cultivation and Weeding
Shallow cultivation was done as the weeds emerged. This
operation was supplemented by hand weeding to remove the weeds
growing near the base of the plants. Cultivation was done to control the
growth of weeds and to loosen the soil for better aeration, root
development and penetration. The last cultivation was done by hilling–up.
Harvesting
Harvesting of cabbage plants was done showing the indication of
head compact with the use of sharp knife to avoid injury to any part of the
cabbage plant.
Gathering of Data
The data gathered were: average yield of the samples of cabbage
head/curd per sample plant and the computed yield in kg. per hectare.
The data gathered was analyzed using the Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) procedure.
Review of Related Literature
According to Marble (2008), the use of natural liquid organic garlic fertilizer to
grow your garlic naturally is good for the environment and costs less than harmful chemical
fertilizers.
Garlic responds to a banded pre-plant application of All Natural Liquid Garlic
Fertilizers, with regular subsequent applications at the two critical stages of growth:
emergence and just prior to bulbing. Once bulbing has begun additional garlic fertilizer has
no significant effect. All Natural Liquid Lime can be amended to the final application when
conditions call for extra calcium.
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Apply All Natural Liquid Organic Garlic Fertilizer in early morning or late
evening. Do not apply before rainfall or irrigation. Some growers are finding that Natural
Garlic Fertilizer applications alone eliminate the need for pesticide applications on certain
pests when they are applied at the same time as pesticides.
According to Marble (2010), organic fertilizer hold nutrients at a hidden capacity
than chemical fertilizers do, when used properly.
Normally, anyone switching from a synthetic fertilizer to an organic fertilizer
should beware of low yields and not much immediate improvement. This is because the
chemicals that have fed to the crops have depleted all that nature had to offer, and it takes
time for that to be replenished.
The best farm fertilizer to use so that we can save our environment, preserve our
soil, and keep our bodies healthy is an organic fertilizer. It’s a nutrient rich fertilizer that
will do wonders for any crop, that’s a promise.
Highlights of Results
Table 1. Average Yield on the Samples of Cabbage Head Subjected to Different
Treatments
YIELD
TREATMENTS
T0 (plain water) control
T1 – 2 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of water
T2 – 4 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of water
T3 – 6 kg of soaked garlic wastes at 1 gal of water
Cv (%)
Significance
Kg/plot
7.25
11.33
11. 95
20.58
2.77
*
Kg/ha
4, 027.77a
6, 294.44a
6, 638.88a
11, 433.33b
*
Actual yield in kg of F1KK cabbage per 18 sq.m. Plants applied with 6 kg of
soaked garlic wastes diluted with 1 gal of water (T 3) produced the highest actual yield with
a mean of 20.58 kg while the lowest yield with a mean of 7.25 kg are obtained from the
plants applied with plain water (T0) only.
Computed yield in kg/ha of F1KK cabbage. Plants applied with 6,000 kg of
soaked garlic wastes diluted with 1,000 gal of water (T3) obtained the highest yield with a
mean of 11,433.33 kg/ha. The lowest computed yield was obtained by F1KK cabbage
applied with plain water (T0) having a mean yield of 4,027.77 kg/ha.
Yield Performance of Cabbage
13
Analysis of variance reveals significant results on weight in kg as affected by the
different treatments. This clearly indicates that a higher concentration of soaked garlic
wastes could be attributed to effectiveness of producing profitable cabbage plants.
Table 2. Cost and Return Analysis of F1KK Cabbage as Affected by Different
Treatments
Treatment
Yield/Plot
(kg)
T0 – cabbage
treated with plain
7.25
water (control)
T1 – cabbage
treated with 2 kg
of soaked garlic
11.33
wastes at 1 gal of
water
T2 – cabbage
treated with 4 kg
of soaked garlic
11.95
wastes at 1 gal of
water
T3 – cabbage
treated with 6 kg
of soaked garlic
20.58
wastes at 1 gal of
water
Cabbage sold at Php 10/kg
Yield/Ha
(kg)
Gross Sale
(Php/ha)
Production
Cost
(Php/.25 ha)
Net
Income
(Php/ha)
Return of
Investment
(%)
4, 027
40, 277.70
3, 950
36,
327.70
90.19
6, 294.44
62, 994.40
3, 950
58,
994.40
93.72
6, 638.88
66, 388.80
3, 950
62,
438.80
94.05
11,
433.33
114,
333.33
3, 950
110,
383.30
96.55
On the computed net income of cabbage per hectare, Treatment 3 treated with
6,000 kg soaked garlic wastes diluted with 1,000 gal of water produced the highest with
Php 110,383.30. Treatment 0 (control) got the lowest net income of Php 36, 327.70 because
the cabbage was treated with plain water only.
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Conclusions
F1KK cabbage treated with greater concentration of soaked garlic wastes
significantly produced the highest cabbage head yield.
Soaked garlic wastes have versatile uses as fertilizer and pesticides.
Actual yield of F1KK cabbage is comparable to the effect of soaked garlic wastes
applied at the rate of 6,000 kg diluted with 1,000 gal of water per hectare
Recommendations
1. Although promising results were noted, still further studies along this line of
interest deemed necessary before a clear–cut recommendation regarding the full used of
soaked garlic wastes in F1KK cabbage production could be made.
2. Commercial fertilizer is also recommended instead of plain water only as the
control to compare the agronomic characteristics and yield of cabbage plants and other
allied vegetables.
References
Marble, Tina D. (2008). Organic Fertilizer. Grow Healthy Plants Naturally. Retrieved on April 15,
2010 at www.google.com/best-organic-fertilizer.com
____________ (2010). If you aren’t using an organic fertilizer. Retrieved on December 14, 2010 at
www.best-organic fertilizer.com/organic-fertilizer-environment.
____________(2010). Farm Fertilizer…Is it the key to a Healthy Production? Retrieved on
December 14, 2010 at www.best-organic fertilizer.com./ farm fertilizer.
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Science and Technology-Based Farm on Biogas Digester
for Rural Development
Lauro B. Tacbas, Ph.D.
Alfredo R. Rabena, Ph.D.
Maritess R. Raboy
Norma Esguerra, DPA
Manuel Bajet, Jr., Ed. D.
Abstract
The study (project) focused on the construction of a Biogas Digester
at the farm of the Magsasaka Syientista, Mr. Maximo Rabanal, in Brgy.
Pantay Daya, Vigan City. The objective of the study was to showcase the
use of biogas using wastes of swine.
An eight cubic meter digester was designed and constructed to
contain the wastes produced by 15 to 20 swine. It has a dimension of 3 m
(depth) x 2 m x 2 m. Inlet and outlet of liquid wastes are positioned 2.75 m
from the floor. Fresh waste and water receptacle were constructed with
dimensions measuring 60.96 cm x 60.96 cm, with a depth of 45.72 cm. The
wastes are drained through the digester and degraded into methane and
other gases. The gases are trapped by a gate valve outside the chamber.
Sediments are collected from the bottom and air dried organic fertilizer.
Effluents from the digester are directed to a second receptacle with a
volume of 1.34 cubic meter that will supply the needed organic fertilizer.
An amount of P 83,266.00 was needed in the construction of a one
unit biogas. Financial analysis showed that to be able to compensate the
expenses spent for the construction of the biogas project, a 6.52 years
payback period is computed. However, if the owner is to venture into a
business such as bagnet production, a lesser payback period is computed
(1.89 years).
This is a PCARRD (Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and
Natural Resources Research and Development) Funded Project.
15
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January-December 2010
Introduction
Background of the Study
Backyard hog raising is one of the added sources of income of small holder
farmers in Ilocos Sur. Farmers usually raise 2-10 heads of swine for ready source of cash
for the family; and some had already ventured in a medium-scale production to cope up the
demand of pork and other value adding products such as longanisa, pork chicharon and the
like.
One of the by-products that can be produced from organic wastes of swine is
biogas. It is a very stable gas which is non-toxic, colorless, odorless, inflammable gas
produced from biomass decomposition. The composition of different gases in biogas are:
methane (CH4), 55-70%; carbon dioxide (CO2), 30-45%; hydrogen sulphide (H2S), 1-2%;
nitrogen (N2), 0-1%; carbon monoxide (CO) traces; and oxygen (O2) traces.
Biogas burns with a blue flame. It has a heat value of 500-700 British Thermal
Unit (BTU)/ft3 (4,500-5,000 kcal/m3) when its methane content is in the range of 60-70%.
The value is directly proportional to the amount of methane contains and this depends upon
the nature of raw materials used in the digestion. Since the composition of this gas is
different, the burners designed for coal gas, butane or Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) when
used, as “biogas burner” will give much lower efficiency. Therefore, specially designed
biogas burners are used which give a thermal efficiency of 55-65%.
Biogas has a small percentage of hydrogen sulphide. The mixture may vary slightly
smell of rotten egg, which is not often noticeable especially when being burned. When the
mixture of methane and air (oxygen) are burnt, a blue flame is emitted, producing a large
amount of heat energy. Because of the mixture of carbon dioxide in large quantity, the
biogas becomes a safe fuel in rural home and prevents explosion as well.
The decomposition (fermentation) process for the formation of methane from
organic material (biodegradable material) involves a group of organisms belonging to the
family-‘methane bacteria’ and is a complex biological and chemical process. Biogas
production involves two major processes consisting of acid formation (liquefaction) and
gas formation (gasification). However, these two broad processes can further be divided,
which gives four stages of anaerobic fermentation inside the digester. They are hydrolysis,
acidification, hydrogenation and methane formation. At the same time for all practical
purposes, one can take the methane production cycle as a three stage activity namely,
hydrolysis, acidification, and methane formation.
There are two benefits derived from biogas. They are tangible and intangible
benefits. Tangible benefits account for the monetary values acquired. These include the
Science and Technology Based-Farm Biogas Digester
17
savings for the fuel, feed materials and fertilizers. These benefits are in the fom of savings
because the amount that was allocated for this purpose was not spent because of available
biogas. The other type of benefits are the intangible benefits which we can not put money
value on it. These include the promotion of the conservation of natural resources by not
cutting trees for firewood, and controlling pollution by proper waste disposal. These
benefits are more rewarding beacuse you have given man the right to live in a fresh, clean
and beautiful environment.
Thus, a Science and Technology-based farm on biogas digester will be tried at the
Magsasaka Siyentista farm to showcase the technology for hog raisers and entrepreneurs.
General Objectives
The general objective was to conduct an S & T-based project and showcase the use
of biogas using wastes of swine.
Specifically, the project aimed to:
1. Showcase the technology on biogas, and
2. Demonstrate to hog raisers and farmers the benefits that can be derived
from using biogas.
Expected Output
The biogas is expected to be showcased and adopted by swine raisers and farmers
in the locality.
Implementing Mechanisms
The project was conceptualized through planning sessions among the
implementors and cooperators. It was implemented in the MS farm with the
presence of the technical experts and monitored by the Partner Member Agencies
(PMA) and the consortiumer and finally by Philippine Council for Agriculture and
Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD).
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Detailed Technology
An eight cu.m. digester was constructed to accommodate wastes generated by
15-20 swine. The digester has a depth of 3 m. Inlet and outlet of wastes and liquid
components are positioned 2.75 m from the floor. It has a square 60.96 cm x 60.96
cm fresh waste and water receptacle of depth 45.72 cm (1.5 ft) . The wastes are
drained through the digester and degraded into methane and other gases. The gases
are trapped by a gate valve outside the chamber. Sediments are collected from the
bottom and air dried organic fertilizer. Effluents from the digester are directed to a
second receptacle , 1.34 cu. m. in capacity that will supply the needed organic
fertilizer.
The newly constructed 8 cu.m. biogas digester at the S&T
based farm in Pantay Daya, Vigan City.
Science and Technology Based-Farm Biogas Digester
19
The 15-head piggery in the S&T-based farm in Pantay Daya, Vigan City.
The 60.96 cm x 60.96cm ( 2’ x 2’) fresh waste and water receptacle.
Biogas production is not a cheap source of energy at first, however, the adoption
of anaerobic technology provides number of valuable products. A capital of about P83,
266.00 is needed for the complete construction of the biogas digester. This includes the
costs of materials as well as the costs of labor for the construction of the project.
Before the completion of the biogas digester, the cooperator consumes a tank of
LPG in just 20 days for his one-burner stove for their daily cooking of food which totaled
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Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
to P 12,766 per year. Considering the high price for LPG, the biogas digester is a viable
solution to problem on energy needs. At present, a tank of LPG costs P 640.00. Financial
analysis of the project showed that to be able to compensate the expenses spent for the
construction of the biogas project; a 6.52-year payback period is computed. However, the
biogas project provided energy source for the production of 10 kg pork per day
required 48 tanks per year amounting to P 1,200 . The household consumption and
the bagnet production summed up to P43,966 per year, thus, manifested a computed
payback of 1.89, less than a year.
Table 1. The payback of the biogas project.
Mode of Usage
Cost of
Biogas
Digester
Cost of LPG
consumed
per year
No. of LPG
tanks consumed
Payback
(years)
Household Use only
P 83,266
12,766
1 tank for 20
days
6.52
P 83,266
43,966
48
1.89
Household with
Bagnet production
Some of the businesses where investors could go into is food business. Vigan is
famous for its bagnet. Cooking of food such as bagnet and chicharon requires large
amount of energy in order to attain the desired crispiness. Thus, it would be justifiable for a
medium-scale piggery owner to construct a biogas digester, and at the same time, be
engaged into businesses requiring the utilization of fuel for frying. They, thus, offer the
additional advantage of reducing fuel costs.
Other indirect benefits derived include organic effluents which could be used as
organic fertilizer for agricultural crops. Vegetables like ampalaya (Momordica charantia),
pepper (Capsicum annuum), pechay (Brassica chinensis) and eggplant (Solanum
melongena)
planted by Mr. Maximo Rabanal show that liquid effluents from the
digester when drained to the crops manifested robust growth and manifested annual
net income of P100,00.00 for two planting seasons of ampalaya, eggplant and
pepper, while 3 planting seasons of pechay.
Science and Technology Based-Farm Biogas Digester
21
Ampalaya applied with digester effluents as organic fertilizer.
Table 2. A comparison on the net income from vegetables using the S &T based
farm practice to the MS practice.
Technology/Practice
Vegetables applied with effluents
( S&T based farm)
Vegetables without effluents
(MS Practice)
Land Area
( sq. m.)
Duration
(year)
Net Income
(in pesos)
8,000
1
100,000
8,000
1
60,000
Table 3. Return of investments of the S & T farm biogas project
Household and vegetables
Household, vegetables and Enterprise (Bagnet)
Cost of the
Investment
(Biogas)
P 83,266
P 83,266
Profits,
Benefits
(per year)
P 112,766
P 488,966
CostBenefit
Ratio
1.35
5.88
Recognizing the problems on environmental degradation, pollution, and health
problems, the biogas technology is an alternative solution. The foul odor in the air was
eliminated by the intervention. These conditions led to incidence of respiratory ailments
and related disorders due to inhalation of carbon monoxide, methane and hydrogen
disulfide. In the operation of the intervention, the air odor was improved, which is an
important element in strategies to uplift the levels of health and environmental
preservation, protection and sustainability.
22
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Profitability
The table presents the cost of production for the construction of a one (1) unit
biogas digester.
Materials Needed
1 pc. Concrete Pipe
500 pcs CHB for the construction of 6 cu.m. biogas digester
10 pcs CRO
80 bags Portland cement
1 pc PVC pipe for biogas fittings
7 pcs Lusob primera
16 m Stainless Steel
Total
Labor Cost
Wages of laborers in the construction of the biogas digester
Wages of laborer in the construction of water recycling septic tank
Total
Total Cost of Production
Cost
750.00
18,795.00
12,254.00
18,947.00
900.00
4,870.00
2,150.00
P 58,666.00
P
P
20,100.00
4,500.00
24,600.00
83,266.00
For household uses:
Cost of biogas construction per unit..........................
Cost of LPG.........................................................
Cost of LPG per month..........................................
Cost of LPG per year..........................................
Payback (years)...................................................
83,266.00
640.00
1,066.60
12,766.00
6.52
For the Bagnet Enterprise:
Cost of Biogas construction per unit.......................
Cost of LPG for household....................................
Cost of bagnet production per year
kg bagnet per day per year)..........................
No of LPG tanks per year..............................
83,266.00
12,766.00
Cost of LPG per year..........................................
Cost of LPG of household & bagnet production...
Payback in years (household & bagnet prod)........
31,200.00
43,966.00
1.89
2,880.00
48
Science and Technology Based-Farm Biogas Digester
23
Return of Investment
Cost of investment...................................................
Savings from fuel(household & bagnet ).... ...........
Income from organic vegetables produced..............
Income from bagnet production (1,200/day)............
ROI (household use )...........................................
ROI (household + enterprise)................................
83,266.00
43,966.00
100,000.00
345,600.00
1.35
5.88
Promotional Activities
After the completion of the project on December 2008, a field day was held
in the S&T farm hosted by the Ayusan Norte Farmers Information Technology
Services (FITS), the Partner Member Agencies (PMA) -UNP and the MS which was
participated by the implementors, cooperators, coordinating agencies and
target
clients. The clients were the chief executive, the city council, Department of
Agriculture and
barangay captains of LGU Vigan, farmers, hog raisers and
entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurs include longaniza and bagnet makers who are
using LPG and firewood in frying bagnet but will adopt the biogas as their fuel
in cooking their commodities.
People from the National Goverment Office (NGOs) and media include
DZNS, DZVV and press officers of Department of Agriculture (DAR) and the
OPAI of UNP attended to broadcast and disseminate the establishment and the
operationalization of the biogas digester.
This is a project that will not only
augment their income via biogas fuel; but will also eliminate the unhealty odor
by confining the pollutants and re-use the effluents generated by the facility into
an organic liquid fertilizer for the vegetable farms, thus, an environment friendly
project.
The PMA and the MS presented the biogas technology to the field day
participants. Flyers on biogas technology were distributed. Six hundred follow up
flyers in English and Iluko printed in colored were published and distributed locally
after three weeks.
A studio broadcast interview of the PMA
by DZVV and DZNS were
conducted to inform the public on the existing and functional biogas digester in the
S & T farm of MS under the juristiction of the Ayusan Norte Vigan FITS Center.
24
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Technology Adoptors
The first technology adoptor was Mrs. Rebecca Palomares of Bahet, San
Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur. She manages 100-head piggery farm. The second adoptor was
Mr. Reylord Tabisula of Camestisoan, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur. He manages a 75head piggery farm. The third is Mrs. Jocelyn Peria of Puroc A Bassit, Vigan City. She
had just completed the facility through the assistance of Department of Science and
Technology (DOST)..
Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Experiences
The Magsasaka Siyentista was observant on the proper determination of the
height of drainage holes to allow gas production. He monitors the span of time
required to produce a blue flame.
He was so insistent on the application of effluents into agricultural crops,
thus, manifested a high increase of produce and a higher income .
Problems Encountered
There was no earlier data used on how many heads are needed to operate
and to generate enough biogas to light a stove at a particular area and volume of
digester, thus. led to the inaccurate number of days waiting before it fully gave off
flame.
There were no data at hand on how high the drainage holes within the
chambers in order for the constructors to have allowed an immediate production of
methane gas.
Lessons Learned
An exact positioning of the drainage holes at the separating walls of the
chambers to create a perfect generation of methane gas to allow an exact
prediction of gas generated was identified, thus, avoiding guess and doubts.
A group of households can be provided with readily available energy coming
from a single source - a piggery farm having a digester.
Science and Technology Based-Farm Biogas Digester
25
Many environmental benefits were felt and identified upon the operation of the
biogas technology.
Recommendations
Make a follow up study to determine the exact heights of drainage holes and
the exact volume and area of digester that will suit to a specified number of
heads/pigs that will sustain waste production .
There is a need to quantify the environmental benefits felt in the operation of
the biogas project in the locality.
26
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
Manuel Bajet Jr., Ed.D.
Norma A. Esguerra, DPA
Abstract
The multi-purpose mechanized chopper was designed and fabricated
using metalworking concepts. It has a housing frame 70 cm wide, 110 cm long,
80 cm high; with detachable spout and a rotating rotor which is mounted with
eight (8) chopping blades, fifty (50) centimeters long. A 30 cm wide chute
conveys the materials to be chopped to a chopping board with blades. It is
powered by 7.5 hp diesel engine, the usual pump motor size for the “kuligligs”
which is the popular service vehicle of most farmers nowadays. The machine
could chop different farm wastes like stalks of corn, tobacco, banana, papaya,
sugarcane, and rice whether fresh or dried. Its average speed is 100 kilograms
in ten (10) minutes.
One unit of said prototype costs fifty three thousand nine hundred sixty
six pesos (P 53,966.00), including its own 7.5 hp diesel engine, and only costs
twenty nine thousand nine hundred sixty six pesos (P 29,966.000 ) without the
motor.
Introduction
Background of the Study
Agriculture and environment are related in many ways. While agriculture demands
high environmental quality, agriculture is a great source of wastes. An increase in the global
population demands increase in agricultural production through higher yields and higher
crop intensities, or an increase in the number of times a piece of land is cropped in one year,
and an increase in arable land areas. This increase in yield and number of cropping season
leads to an increase in agricultural wastes in the form of leaves, stalks, bagasse and other
organic plant parts.
Corn is one of the most popular crops grown in Ilocos Sur and the whole Ilocos
Region in which a total of 61,292.00 hectares is dedicated to corn. This total hectarage
produce about 296,467 MT. Ilocos Sur’s share is about 8,521 hectares, yielding 43,319
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
27
MT, about 15% of the total regional yield. It is a very useful plant to the farmers. The cobs
are sold as natural food when boiled, and as raw material to an array of processed foodsfrom the fast growing Ilocos export product, the chicacorn, to the corn chips, which are
favorite junk foods for all seasons. The stalks also serve a variety of purposes: firewood,
organic fertilizer when decomposed or animal feed stock when chopped.
On the other hand, tobacco and sugar cane are also two of the favorite crops of
Ilocanoes needing a considerable time of handling after taking the main component of these
crops during harvesting. Manual chopping of the stalks for a hectare planted to such crops
would take several weeks of disposal. At times, burning would be the easiest recourse for
the non-environmentalist farmer. But if a device is available to speed up chopping to
enhance disintegration, then the use of these agricultural wastes will be maximized.
The persistent request of the Local Governments of Burgos, Sta. Maria, and Sto.
Domingo, through the assessed need of corn growers therein, as aired by the
Municipal/City Agricultural Officers, inspired the conceptualization of this prototyping for
a multipurpose chopper. Such machine shall be useful for environmental and agricultural
concerns. It could hasten the decomposition of biodegradable garbage, like twigs, branches,
fruit peelings and other forms. An additional market for the machine is the Ilocos Sur
Polytechnic College, an agricultural school, conducting research within its service area:
Santa to Tagudin, including upland municipalities of Burgos, Salcedo and Cervantes.
Objectives of the Study
The overall objective of this research is to design and construct a mechanized
multi-purpose chopper so that some agricultural developments shall be realized; to wit:
1. The localization of an agricultural technology, in the form of an equipment to
effectively and efficiently address the chopping requirements of various crops and
stalks for faster handling, stocking, and/or safekeeping purposes; and
2. The preparation of raw materials needed in the making of organic fertilizer shall
have been facilitated.
Research Methodology
This study made use of the experimental type of research, conducted in two phases;
namely:
Phase 1. The design and fabrication of the prototype; and
Phase 2. Qualitative testing to identify the chopping capacity using selected
parameters applied to corn, tobacco, sugarcane, banana and papaya stalks.
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UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
The first phase set the most functional arrangement and sizes of the component
parts to form the basic structure.
The second phase tested the performance of the assembled machine, and
adjustments were then made to improve the quality of the output.
The t-test is used to measure the level of significance of the improvement between
the manual handling of selected agricultural wastes and with the introduced technology
using the machine.
Results and Discussion
The critical parts of the multi-purpose chopper were finalized by comparing how the
machine performs between selected designs variables.
a. Design Parameters
a.1. Choice of the machine capacity
It was earlier proposed that a 6.5 hp capacity of motor will be utilized for the
prototyping. However, there is no available size in the market, hence the researchers
opted to what is readily available, a 7.5 hp motor.
a.2. Lay-out of the Blades
An important parameter considered in the prototyping is the positioning of the
blades for higher productivity. A comparative study was made whether: a) straight and
b) inclined at an angle of 200. Table 3 presents the results of the comparison.
Obviously, the straight blades chopped slower than the inclined blades. This gave the
researchers the basis in deciding to adopt the tilted positioning of blades.
Table 3. Performance Testing Between Straight and Inclined Chopping Primary Blades
using Corn Stalks as Specimen
Type of
Stalk
Fresh
Dried
Chopped Cornstalks, in kgs
Straight Position of
Blades Inclined @ 200 from the
Blades
Plane of the Rotor
T1
T2
T3
Ave
T1
T2
T3
Ave
50
52
51
51.00
80
81
81.5
80.83
68
70
67
68.33
90
92
91
91.00
Length of
Chopped
Materials, inches
4-6
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
29
a.3. Adoption of primary and secondary blades
During the proposal stage, the researchers
assumed that two sets of blades would turn the
chopping activity finer and faster results. But this
plan did not turn out to be practical because the
secondary blades caused impediments to the
primary blades in chopping the stalks fed to the
chute. Instead of assisting in pulling the stalks
toward the blades, the secondary blades pushed
the cutting specimen opposite the direction of the
primary blades. The total effect is not synergistic.
The primary and secondary blades do not work
supportively.
Hence, the idea of inserting
secondary blades was dropped.
Fig. 1. Front View (Feeding Side)
b. Assembly of the Component Parts
The structure of the multi-purpose mechanized chopper is made of bars, G. I. sheet
and pipes, shafting, hard steel, using pillow blocks, flywheel, bolts and nuts. It has a
detachable extended spout to accommodate greater length and volume of raw materials
with a lifting rotor guard. The flywheel is guarded and connected on both ends of the
shafting. The machine is also fabricated with a travel shoe for ease of travelling by
“kuliglig” or towed by a cow or a carabao. The rotor has a diameter of 10 cm and length of
52 cm where the 8 pieces of detachable blades, 51 cm long and 5 cm wide, are attached.
The gadget is operated by a 7.5 hp diesel engine belt driver which is conn ected to the
grinder pulley to drive the rotor which is also equipped with a fly wheel.
Lifting Guard
Chute
Spout
Support
Engine
Engine
Frame
Chassis/
Frame
Figure 2. The chopper perspective
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UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
The 8-piece detachable chopping blades are in a closed type sharper mounted on
the rotor at 200 from the horizontal plane, 4” and 2” apart. Figures 1 to 3 show the front
view, the perspective, and the rotor assembly, respectively.
The chute (outlet for chopped materials) is allowed to move via a flapping metal
cover which readily closes to direct the flow of materials outside.
Cover
Blade
Flywheel
End Plate
Figure 3. A close-up view of the
rotor assembly.
c. Comparative Features of the Prototype Against Existing Local Choppers
The researchers are fully aware of the presence of equipment fabricators at Bangar
and Bacnotan, both in the province of La Union. However, the proposed gadget invites a
Coverset-up which really offers more ease of handling and operation. Table 4 presents
different
the matrix of distinguishing features of the proposed gadget over other existing ones.
Flywheel
Discl
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
31
Table 4. The Proposed vs Existing Choppers
Parameters
Prototype
Existing
Size
110 cm high, 104
cm wide
90 cm high, 50
cm wide
Weight
Abt 140 kgs
Abt 85 kgs
Engine
7.5 HP diesel-fed
8
HP
–
gasoline fed
Capacity
50 kls of corn
stalks in 3 min
12 kls of corn
stalks in 3 min
Add’l
accessories
Flywheel
-
Travel shoe
-
4 pcs 51 cm long,
5 cm high Primary
Blades
Detachable rotor
Style
Detachable spout
4 pcs 30 cm
long, 5 cm
high Primary
Blades
Fixed
Fixed
Significance of the Assessed
Difference
Slightly made higher for the sake
of balance and proportion due to
the added flywheel and heavy duty
rotor.
Thicker steel plates were used to
support the flywheel and heavy
duty rotor.
Adopted the kuliglig engine to
coincide with what most farmers
already have, diesel is more
economical, and more powerful.
Higher productivity by 18 kilos
with straight blades, even higher
with tilted blades
To increase the speed of the
machine
To enhance its transportability,
which may be tied tight with
kuliglig trailer.
More efficient and effective cutting
power than the existing choppers
For a better sharpening/ hoaning
mechanism
To facilitate traveling
d. Performance Testing of the Prototype
Aside from corn stalks, the prototype chopper was tested to chop tobacco, rice hay,
banana, papaya and sugarcane stalks. The samples showed more chopped materials within
the same period with the adopted features based from earlier tests. Tables 5 and 6 show the
results with the position of the blades as parameter.
Initial trials conducted manifested difficulty in chopping coconut husks. The rotor
does not work continuously, while the V-belt slipped, damaging it significantly. Other trials
conducted in chopping dried rice hull caused clogging to the rotor and the blade.
32
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Basing from the results of the comparative performances, the hissed type-straight
angle position has finer results than the hissed type, inclined position.
Table 5. The Chopping Results of the Machine Using Hissed type sharpened blade,
inclined position, 200.
10 minutes chopping, kgs
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3
Type of stalks
Tobacco (Virginia)
Dried
Fresh
Fresh Banana
Fresh Papaya
Fresh Rice Hay
Waste Sugarcane stalks
140
200
300
170
200
50
150
220
310
160
205
48
Length of chopped
materials, inches
130
180
320
180
195
51
3-5
4
2
4-6
2-4
Table 6. The Chopping Result of the Machine, Hissed type- sharpened blade, straight angle
position.
10 minutes chopping, in kgs
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3
Type of stalks
Tobacco
Dried
Fresh
Fresh Banana
Fresh Papaya
Fresh Rice Hay
Waste Sugarcane stalks
100
150
280
150
40
50
102
151
300
155
42
49
98
149
305
160
39
48
Length of chopped
materials, inches
2-3
2
3-4
1-2
Statistical Analysis of the Results
The observed outputs were subjected to t-test of significant difference. The results
are shown in Tables 7, 8 and 9, and are interpreted correspondingly.
Table 7. Results of t-Test of Significant Differences, by Weight Using Cornstalks
Straight
Angle
Position
Corn stalks (Fresh) 80.83
51.00
Corn stalks (Dried) 91.00
68.33
As a Whole
85.92
59.67
** significant at .01 probability level
Type of Stalks
Inclined
Position
Mean
Difference
t-value
t-prob
Interpretation
29.83
22.67
26.25
41.065
21.503
5.795
.000**
.000**
.000**
Significant
Significant
Significant
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
33
There exists significant difference between the output using the inclined and
straight positioning of blades, whether fresh, dried or taken as a whole. This suggests that
the machine performs better when the blades are inclined than when straight.
Table 8. Results of t-Test of Significant Differences by Weight of Selected Chopped
Materials
Type of Stalks
Inclined
Position
Straight
Angle
Position
100.00
150.00
295.00
155.00
40.33
Tobacco (Dried)
140.00
Tobacco (Fresh)
200.00
Fresh Banana
310.00
Fresh Papaya
170.00
Fresh Rice Hay
200.00
Waste Sugarcane
49.67
49.00
Stalks
As a Whole
178.28
131.56
* significant at .05 probability level
** significant at .01 probability level
Mean
Difference
t-value
t-prob
Interpretation
40.00
50.00
15.00
15.00
159.67
6.794
4.325
1.567
2.324
52.897
.002**
.012*
.192
.081
.000**
Significant
Significant
Not Significant
Not Significant
Significant
.67
.632
.561
Not Significant
46.72
1.661
.106
Not Significant
Still using the same statistical treatment with the machine’s performance in
chopping other agricultural wastes with the two (2) different positions as revealed in Tables
5 and 6, the results show that:
a. Between the inclined and straight position in chopping dried and fresh tobacco
stalks, the result is significant;
b. Between the inclined and straight position in chopping fresh banana, fresh
papaya and waste sugarcane stalks, the result is not significant;
c. Between the inclined and straight position in chopping fresh rice hay, the result
was highly significant.
These results would just suggest that the inclined blades would work better for
dried and fresh tobacco stalks, just like cornstalks, as well as fresh rice hay, but there is not
much difference in its performance when chopping bananas, papaya or sugarcane stalks.
This finding would only mean that the inclined blades would chop cornstalks, tobacco
stalks and rice hay faster than how it chops fresh bananas, fresh papayas or sugarcane
stalks. In other words, whether inclined or straight, the chopping output is not affected
when chopping fresh bananas, fresh papayas or sugarcane stalks.
34
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
Table 9. Results of t-Test of Significant Differences in Length of Chopped Materials
Inclined
Position
As a Whole
3.80
Straight
Angle
Position
2.90
Mean
Difference
.90
t-value t-prob Interpretation
1.306
.228
Not Significant
When the chopped materials are taken as a whole, Table 9 reveals that there is no
significant difference in the length of the chopped materials between the two positions of
blades. In other words, the length of the chopped materials is not affected by the position
of the blades. Practically speaking, the chopping length would be immaterial since the
ultimate objective is just to hasten decomposition.
Financial Requirements
The prototype has been manufactured in the amount of P53,966.00 due to the
variations instilled in developing the design with the parameters considered. However, the
cost could be reduced for subsequent fabrications. The estimate already includes the cost of
the kuliglig motor, a popular farm facility- almost owned by every farmer. If the purchasing
farmer already has it, then it could be discounted from the given price. The price of the
machine without the motor would be Ph P 29,966.00, subject to current prices of steel
plates, angle bars and other spare parts composing it. Initial assemblies are envisioned to be
more expensive due to trials and experimentation which are inherent in this prototyping
activity. Eventually, after this prototype development, the selling price will be less, and in
the long run, reasonable and affordable, compared to the market prices of fellow
fabricators, because the motor used by them are built-in, and undetachable, therefore, not
deductible from the set price therefrom.
Analysis of Return on Investment
The average corn yield for Ilocos Sur, as stated earlier is 43,319 MT from 8,521
hectares, or roughly 5 MT per hectare, leaving behind more wastes than the yield. If a
farmer owns only half hectare land planted to corn, a conservative yield would be 2,500
kgs, and approximately 4000 kgs of cornstalks. Using the observed productivity of the
machine for dried cornstalks at 80 kgs in 3 minutes, the machine can chop 1,600 kgs in an
hour.in other words, the machine could finish chopping the cornstalks in 2.5 hrs. Please
refer to Table 10. In a hectare, Ph P 12,500 is saved by the machine due to corn alone. In
short, what the machine can do in 2.5 hours will be done by 20 men. The rate of work
improvement is 160 times faster.
Prototyping of a Multi-Purpose Mechanized Chopper
35
A practical comparison to compute the farmer’s return on investment if he buys the
machine would be considering how much he will pay somebody to chop the cornstalks
manually. It would take a man one hour to chop approximately 10 kgs of dried talks,
provided he has complete facilities: a sharp bolo, wedge where the stalks are cut, and a
wide platform to contain the chopped pieces. If other wastes are included, the farmer could
save about Ph P 20,000 in one cropping season. Using this derived figure, the payback
period will last for 2.7 years if a farmer buys the machine with the motor, and 1.3 years if
he buys only the chopper.
Table 10. Simplified Computation on the Mechanized Chopper’s Return on Investment
Particulars
With motor
Without motor
Estimated weight of
cornstalks to be chopped
Productivity
Time for machine to chop
Manual productivity
Time to chop 4000 kgs
Labor rate
Labor Expense
Cost of
Machine
53966
23966
80
Computation
s
kgs in 3 min
(4000/(10*8)
50*250
Rate
Units/Remarks
4000
kgs
1600
2.5
10
50
250
kgs/hr
hrs
kgs/hr
man-days
per day
Savings due to
corn alone in one
cropping season.
12,50
0
The payback period may be shortened if the farmer maximizes the use of the
chopper.
Another point of comparison could be from the rate of work improvement done by
the machine. In a case when it is to be hired to do chopping for outside clients, the rate per
hour could be computed based from the amount saved divided by the improvement rate of
160, giving a ratio of 78.125. This could be the machine’s rental rate per hour. With this
scheme, the faster is its payback period.
Conclusions
An analysis of the observed results during the dry-run provided the decisions
adopted in the design of the prototype: a) position of the blades; as well as b) the choice in
adopting primary and secondary blades.
36
UNP Research Journal
Vol. XIX
January-December 2010
1. Because of the higher productivity of chopping various stalks as reinforced in
the results shown from Tables 5 and 6, when laid in an inclined position, the blades are
positioned so.
2. The insertion of secondary blades does not invite synergy with the primary
blades, thus creating lesser productivity. Therefore, only one set of blades was adopted in
the design.
3. There is significant difference in the performance of the prototype with
inclined blades when chopping corn, tobacco and rice hay stalks, but no significant
difference exist in chopping fresh bananas and papayas.
4. There is no significant difference in the length of the chopped materials with
the position of the blades.
Recommendation
In view of the above conclusions, the researchers highly recommend the adoption
of the prototyped mechanized multi-purpose chopper which was designed to offer an
innovation to local agricultural technology. It expedites the processing of organic fertilizer
because of the ease of chopping agricultural wastes which are ingredients in the production
of such. Moreover, it facilitates handling of dried agricultural feed stock like corn stalks for
easier storage.
The prototype is highly recommended for corn, tobacco, sugarcane, banana, papaya
and rice hay stalks, but not recommended for coconut husks and other agricultural wastes
with similar hardness so as not to damage the rotor and the blades. However, there are still
areas to be studied to improve the machine’s performance, like experimenting on the
distances of the blades, the flywheel, and other combinations.
References
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Manual
Manual for Welding Standards
Interviews from Farmers and Market Garbage Collectors
Observations from the output of existing choppers in Bangar, La Union