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8/7/2019 Rice Threshing in Kano State
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CHAPTER ONE
1.0 GENERAL INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
Farming system consist of many operations or activities each no less important
than the subsequent or the preceding one. One of such operations is threshing
which is immediate operation after harvesting of grain crops. The quality of any
grain product depends on how well it is threshed and cleaned.
Threshing is a necessary step before processing of grains into flour for domestic
or industrial use. In addition, annual yield evaluations by farmers are only
possible after threshing operation (Dangora et.al. 2006).
1.2 Definition of threshing
Threshing simply implies the removal of grains from the plant by striking,
treading or rubbing. Technically, threshing does not only signify detachment of
seed from the plant but also includes the separation of the seed from the chaff and
cleaning of the separated seed. Any threshing process has the objective of
severing the attachment of the grain kernels from the plant. In some crops, the
kernel must also be removed from a protective husk or pod (Brown et.al., 1999).
1.3 Methods of threshing
In various parts of the world, threshing is accomplished either by treading the
grain under the feet of men or the hooves of the animals, or striking the grain with
stick or peg/loop of threshing machine or removing the grain by rubbing between
stone or wooden rollers on a threshing floor or between the rasp bar and concave
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of a combine. Generally, threshing can either be done traditionally or
mechanically by the use of machines.
1.3.1 Manual threshing
Manual threshing involves the use of traditional methods and equipment for
threshing. Threshing is done manually by beating the head of the plant with
sticks, beating the plant continually on a drum or stone or rubbing between stone
or wooden roller. In some cases manual threshing is accomplished either by
treading the grain under the feet of men or the hooves of animals. Apart from
large labor requirement, this is a very arduous task. In addition the grain becomes
contaminated with debris from where the beating is done (Kaul and Egbo, 1985).
A wooden mortar and pestle is also a simple device for manual threshing, but the
out put is low.
Irrespective of the traditional method employed for grain threshing, manual
cleaning of the threshed grain follows the threshing. Manual cleaning involves
tossing the threshed crop into a natural breeze and catching the grain or seed. The
wind carries away the chaff and dust (winnowing).
1.3.2 Mechanical threshing
In mechanical threshing, mechanical devices/machines are used. Mechanical
threshers are available for threshing and ranges from simple foot operated light
machines (threshers) to a highly sophisticated combine harvester.
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The basic unit of threshing machines is a beater which beats or rubs the crop
against a stationary plate. The beater achieves detachment of the grain from the
ear head either by impact (beating) or by rubbing action, or by a combination of
the two. A cleaning unit which consists of a sieve and in some cases a fan or
blower is incorporated into these machines. Rotary threshers, power driven
stationary threshers, foot operated threshers, combine harvesters etc are example
of threshing machines. A combine is a reaper cum thresher put together to
perform three operations consisting of harvesting, threshing and cleaning the
grain from the straw in one operation.
Farmers, wherever in the world, practice one of these methods of threshing
depending on so many things as tradition, technology available, economy, etc.
Nigerian farmers are no exception, that is to say they do employ one or more of
these methods of threshing.
Dauda and Adgidzi (2002) reported that traditional methods of threshing in
Nigeria is by beating with stick or hitting the grain stalk or pods on the floor or
using the mortar and pestle. Ali (1999) reported that over the years different
mechanical means of threshing were introduced into Nigeria.
1.4 Statement of the Problem.
Threshing represents an important activity during the cropping season and it
determines to a large extent quantity and quality of what the farmers get as their
yield. Despite its importance, a lot of problems are still associated with threshing.
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It is mostly done manually with resultant low output and high drudgery. Other
problems include spillage and contamination with sand and stones. When
mechanical threshers are available, high losses, breakages and low threshing
efficiency have been reported. Thus it is the aim of this study to establish in a
quantitative manner the current practice(s) with a view to fashioning out
actionable recommendations that could lead to improvement of the existing
threshing practices as relates to rice and sorghum.
1.5 Project Justification
Any work resulting in a scientifically established and documented knowledge
about the current practice of threshing in Kano State would help in upgrading the
practice. For example, if the nature of the problems is known, a solution in form
of an improved procedure or tool may be provided.
1.6 Aim and Objective
The aim of this project is to establish the current practice of rice and sorghum
threshing in Kano state. The specific objectives include:
1. To study and document the steps and processes used by the farmers in
threshing rice and sorghum.
2. To identify and measure dimensions of tools/devices used by the farmers
and establish the suitability or otherwise of the tools being used by the
farmers.
3. To carry out process studies and evaluate parameters such as output, losses
etc.
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4. To identify constraints in the existing process and make recommendations
for improvement.
1.7 Scope and Limitations
This project will establish the current practice of rice and sorghum threshing being
used by Kano state farmers. This project will be limited to rice and sorghum
threshing only. The project also selected two areas namely Kura and Dan bare
(kumbotso LG) for the study. These two areas are known for their rice and sorghum
production respectively.
1.8 Methodology
Questionnaire, direct interview, field study and observation will be used to obtain
the necessary information from the farmers in the selected areas.
Questionnaire will first be prepared and would contain questions on all
information required from the farmers. The focus of the questionnaire would
include:
i. The steps and tools they use for the threshing.
ii. Their performance level.
iii. Their problems and needs as regard to the threshing of their
products.
iv. Information on existing technology of threshing (if any) not being
used by them etc.
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Based on the response of these questionnaires, a number of the respondents
will be selected and field study and observation will be conducted, while they
are threshing.
Additional information will also be obtained from the ministry of agriculture
and KNARDA to compare with the results of the questionnaires administered
to the farmers.
The gathered information will then be analyzed using simple statistical
analysis.
To complete the work, discussion, suggestion and recommendations willfinely be made.
1.9 Significance of the Project
The project will give impetus towards upgrading the current practice of threshing
in Kano state. It will also result in an established and documented knowledge of
rice and sorghum threshing in Kano state which may help a later work on rice and
sorghum threshing in the area.