Abstract
A model for predicting juice extraction from date palm fruit using an existing mechanical extractor was developed in the study. Model development was based on principle of continuity and momentum transport. Optimum values of factors such as steaming time, diffusion coefficient, digestion time and quantity of water required for optimum juice yield were determined. Effect of steaming time, diffusion coefficient and pressure on experimental and predicted yield were also determined. Results obtained gave optimum values for steaming time, diffusion coefficient, digestion time and quantity of water as 90 minutes, 4.38 x 10<sup>-9</sup> m<sup>2</sup>/s, 15 minutes and 8 litres, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the effects of factors on yield were significant (P<0.01). The overall deviation of experimental yield from theoretical prediction was 2.56%. The results obtained showed that the mechanical extractor been optimized in the study is appropriate to be applied for economic purposes.
Highlights
Modelling juice extraction from fruit is possible when the extraction and operation parameters are known
The model developed in the study accurately predicted the extraction of juice from date palm fruit
The model can be applied to predict the extraction of juice and oil from other fruits and oil bearing seeds, respectively
Summary
Modelling juice extraction from fruit is possible when the extraction and operation parameters are known. The modelling process involves the development of mathematical equations using available facts or results obtained from experimentation. It is a step by step process which is based on scientific principles and logics. Definition standard error of difference diffusion coefficient of date palm fruit (m2/s) model constant. Empirical Models These are based on results obtained from experimentation. Extraction factors such as speed of flow, pressure, temperature, particle size, solubility, time of activity, etc were used in the development of extraction models [2]. The major focus was to develop a model to predict the extraction of juice from date palm fruit.
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