DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A SHEA MIXING MACHINE

The production of shea butter is a vital economic activity for many women in rural areas, yet the traditional method of mixing paste manually is laborious, time consuming, and poses significant health risks such as back strain. Furthermore, existing industrial mixers are often imported, expensive, and reliant on unstable electricity supply, making them inaccessible to small scale producers. This study aimed to design and fabricate a manually operated shea butter mixing machine using locally sourced materials to address these challenges. The methodology involved rigorous design analysis, material selection, and fabrication. Key components included a stainless steel cylindrical container, mixing blades, a mild steel frame, and a power transmission system utilizing a V belt and pulley mechanism driven by a manual sharpening machine prime mover. Design calculations determined a tank volume of 0.027m³ and a belt length of 1.229m to ensure optimal performance. The design considered viscosity, torque requirements, and ergonomic safety to minimize operator fatigue. Performance evaluation revealed that the machine effectively reduces mixing time to approximately 10 15 minutes per batch, significantly improving efficiency compared to hand stirring. The fabricated machine eliminates physical drudgery, ensures product hygiene by reducing human contact, and operates independently of electrical power. The use of stainless steel prevents corrosion and contamination, while the locally sourced mild steel frame ensures structural stability at a low cost. The study concludes that the developed mixer is a cost effective, durable, and culturally appropriate technology for rural agro processing. It successfully bridges the gap between crude manual methods and unaffordable industrial automation. The machine enhances productivity and ensures consistency in paste homogeneity. Recommendations include future modifications for electric motors and safety guards. This indigenous engineering solution empowers local entrepreneurs to enhance productivity and product quality sustainably. The project demonstrates that appropriate technology can significantly reduce post harvest losses and improve the socioeconomic status of rural processors by providing an affordable mechanization alternative. Safety measures like locking mechanisms were integrated to prevent accidents.