DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A COST-EFFECTIVE MULTIPURPOSE SIEVING MACHINE FOR AGRICULTURAL APPLICATIONS

Efficient separation of grains from impurities is a critical process in post-harvest agricultural operations.This paper presents the design and development of a cost-effective multipurpose sieving machine specifically tailored for agricultural applications.The machine employs a motor-driven crank-slider reciprocating mechanism to create controlled vibrations that enable the separation of cereal grains based on size.Designed with affordability, ease of use, and durability in mind, the machine is constructed using mild steel to ensure structural strength and longevity.The sieving system utilizes interchangeable wire mesh screens, allowing it to cater to different grain sizes and applications.Emphasis is placed on ergonomic design, minimal maintenance, and reduction in manual labor, making the machine suitable for use in rural and semi-urban settings.Comparative analysis with existing commercial models highlights the economic and operational benefits of the proposed design.The machine demonstrates promising results in improving grain cleaning efficiency while keeping the overall cost low, thus making it an ideal solution for small and medium-scale farmers.