Apple Damage in Bulk Bins During Semi-trailer Transport

Abstract

Each year a majority of the U.S. apple crop is transported in bulk bins on semi-trailers and trucks from the orchard to a storage facility or central packing house. During the transportation process, mechanical damage such as bruises, abrasions, cuts, and punctures can occur, causing a decrease in fruit grade. Tests were conducted in Michigan to identify the magnitude of damage incurred by apples in bulk bins during semi-trailer transportation on a rough interstate highway. Five bulk bin designs (two hardwood, one plywood, and two plastic), two trailer suspension systems (steel-spring and air-cushion), and two trip distances [55 and 110 km (34 and 68 mile)] were evaluated. Damage-free apples were used in all tests and accumulated damage was measured. Test fruit positioned in the middle of each bin had similar bruise and abrasion damage levels regardless of the bin design, suspension system, or trip distance. Abrasion damage on the sidewall test apples varied among bin design, suspension system, and trip distance. Abrasion damage on sidewall test fruit was significantly less on the air-cushion system. The plastic bins had much less abrasion damage on the sidewall test fruit than did the hardwood and plywood bins. The range of abrasion damage on the sidewall test apples was 0.6 to 65%. Sidewall fruit grade ranged from 71.3 to 100.0% U.S. Extra Fancy.