2023, Vol. 8, Special Issue 6

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a crucial oilseed crop in India, rich in oil, protein, and carbohydrates. Harvesting, a significant operation in groundnut cultivation, often leads to considerable pod loss and contributes substantially to cultivation costs. This research focuses on determining the cutting force required for designing of efficient groundnut harvesting blades, considering taproot diameter and moisture content. A comprehensive study using a TA. XT textural analyzer involved measuring cutting forces for different taproot diameters and moisture levels. Results indicate that cutting force increases with larger taproot diameters and decreases with higher taproot moisture content. The study underscores the importance of understanding cutting force dynamics for designing effective groundnut diggers, ultimately reducing losses in mechanized harvesting.