Performance Testing of a Patchouli Chopping Machine Powered by a Gasoline Engine

Abstract

This study aims to [1] examine the work efficiency of the patchouli chopper machine powered by a gasoline engine based on chopping capacity and fuel consumption, and [2] evaluate the quality of the chopped results based on size and uniformity. The research was conducted at the Mechanical Engineering Workshop of Politeknik Negeri Manado using a quantitative experimental method. The test was carried out four times using 7 kg of dried patchouli leaves in each session. The measured parameters included chopping capacity (kg/hour), specific fuel consumption (ml/kg), chopping efficiency, and size of the chopped material. The results showed that the machine had an average chopping capacity of 71.1 kg/hour, a specific fuel consumption of 17.86 ml/kg (equivalent to 56.01 kg/liter), and 100% chopping efficiency without residue. The chopped material ranged between 5–7 cm, considered uniform and suitable for essential oil distillation. The machine is deemed feasible for use in small to medium-scale production. It is recommended to perform regular maintenance and further testing with varying moisture content to optimize machine performance.