Development of a power operated rubber tapping machine

Abstract

Rubber tapping is the process by which the sap (latex) is removed from a lubber tree without damaging the cambium of the tree. Tapping is the most costly activity in natural rubber production and the shortage of tappers is a serious problem in rubber plantations. Rubber tree tapping is usually done using a manual type tapping knife. By using this knife, bark consumption and cutting depth cannot be controlled. To solve this problem, it is important to develop a mechanized tapping which can control bark consumption and cutting depth. The objective of this project is to fabricate and test the working of a mechanical rubber tapping machine. Before the fabrication of the machine, a detailed study was conducted on the tapping process and the existing rubber tapping knives. As per the ergonomic study conducted, the problems associated with tapping were understood. The developed power operated rubber tapping machine consists of a replaceable blade, a shaft, power transmission system, a gear assembly, a motor, casing and a battery. The performance of the developed power operated rubber tapping machine was evaluated in terms of capacity, depth of cut, thickness of cut and time.