Developing models of DOE and simulation to maximise output of tomato concentrated pulp processing unit

Abstract

In developing country like India, agriculture is the main stay of the economy. Agricultural industries and related activities can account for a considerable proportion of their output. The main objective of fruit and vegetable processing is to supply wholesome, safe, nutritious and acceptable food to consumers throughout the year. Processing requires frequent handling, high temperature and pressure. Many of the ordinary varieties of tomatoes, for instance, are not suitable for making paste or other processed products. Simulation was carried out for the updated model for a period of ten days with five replications. From the results obtained from the design of experiments, noises in the factors (steam losses, minor stoppages) were reduced by implementing the mentioned techniques. The runs are randomised using MINITAB software. A cost matrix was made to create a trade-off between all factors that were affecting the performance. This resulted in the increase of throughput rate in the real scenario. This research project demonstrates the practical application of design of experiments showing how it can bring real breakthroughs in productivity of fruit (tomato) processing industry.