Journal ID : AMA-17-09-2024-13217
[This article belongs to Volume - 55, Issue - 09]
Total View : 362

Title : TECHNO-ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF MINI TRACTOR GRABBER (MTG) FOR THE OIL PALM FFB EVACUATION

Abstract :

Efficient fresh fruit bunch (FFB) evacuation is a crucial process in the supply chain for oil production. Sustainable methods for the process are increasingly important. Mini tractor grabber (MTG) is a technology used for FFB evacuation that combines a small-size tractor, a one-tonne trailer, and hydraulic arms. Its operational benefits and potential for sustainable practices make it a promising prospect. The most significant impact of MTG is the reduced need for manual labour, allowing businesses to save costs and conserve resources. This paper evaluates MTG technology's technical and economic benefits for the oil palm FFB evacuation. A five-year study in a Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) model plantation site was carried out extensively to evaluate the performance of MTG, which had never been conducted before. Results indicated that the cost of operation is RM 7.80 per tonne of FFB, with factors such as repair and maintenance being found to be more than 35% of the total cost. The breakdown analysis indicated that repairs and maintenance were significant for the mechanised operation and would require attention from management if the oil palm mechanised system was introduced. Besides that, MTG operation provides numerous benefits to the industry and the nation, especially in increasing the efficiency of the FFB evacuation process.

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