Finite element analysis of fermentation frame design for cocoa beans using ASTM A36 material

Farmers in Berau Regency continue to conduct the cocoa bean fermentation process traditionally. In this traditional method, farmers use wooden boxes, which can lead to corrosion contamination due to the use of nails and other materials, potentially affecting the safety and quality of the resulting cocoa beans. The need for efficient fermentation technology has driven the development of a robust and safe frame design to support the cocoa bean fermentation process. This study aims to analyze the strength of the fermentation frame design made from ASTM A36 material using the finite element method (FEM) in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024. The analysis includes stress distribution (Von Mises), displacement, and safety factor. The method begins with the frame design, followed by determining the frame dimensions and analyzing the frame using FEM under a load of 637 N. The simulation was performed to determine the maximum stress distribution, displacement value, and safety factor to ensure the design meets the required safety standards. The study results show a maximum Von Mises stress of 7.19443 MPa, a displacement of 0.0693914 mm, and a safety factor of 15. Based on these findings, the simulated frame design is technically categorized as safe from critical limits, and the cocoa bean fermentation device can operate effectively.