Development of Table-Top Shallot Peeler Cum Cutting Machine

Abstract

This study presents the design and development of a compact table-top shallot peeling and cutting machine utilizing a camshaft-driven mechanical system. The proposed mechanism integrates abrasive peeling and precision cutting operations within a single unit to improve efficiency and reduce manual labor in small to medium-scale food processing environments. The peeling system features a stationary drum equipped with an emery-coated disc (Carborundum Q297) that rotates at 140 RPM, effectively removing the shallot skin through abrasive friction. A camshaft mechanism is employed to synchronize the motion of internal components, ensuring consistent contact and minimal shallot damage. Following the peeling process, high-carbon steel cutting blades are used to chop the shallots into desired sizes. The machine aims to optimize processing time, reduce operational complexity, and maintain the quality and hygiene of the end product. Experimental trials demonstrate promising results in terms of peeling efficiency, minimal wastage, and uniform chopping. This mechanized solution offers a significant advancement for small-scale food processing applications.

Introduction

1. Introduction

Shallots are a popular ingredient known for their unique flavor and health benefits. However, their small size, tight skin, and clustered growth make manual peeling and cutting laborious, leading to:

• High labor costs

• Increased food waste

• Health issues (eye/skin irritation from sulfur compounds)

• Inconsistent quality

Current solutions are either large-scale industrial machines or devices that only handle one task (peeling or cutting), which are unsuitable for small kitchens, restaurants, and households.

2. Objective

To design and develop a compact, efficient, and user-friendly tabletop machine that:

• Simultaneously peels and cuts shallots

• Maintains hygiene and reduces physical strain

• Is cost-effective, durable, and easy to clean

• Ensures minimal damage and consistent output

3. Design Highlights

• Dual-function system: Integrates both peeling and cutting in one machine

• Compact size: Fits on a kitchen countertop

• User-friendly controls: Simple start/stop functions, with options for upgrades to digital interfaces

• Safety features: Shielded cutting unit, safety locks, and insulated electrical components

• Energy-efficient: Operates on standard power supply (<250W)

4. Peeling Mechanism

• Method: Abrasive peeling combined with air-blowing

• Process: Shallots tumble in a rotating abrasive drum (Emery cloth - Carborundum Q297) powered by a 140 RPM AC motor, loosening the outer skin

• Airflow: A blower removes the loosened skins via strategically placed vents

• Capacity: 500–700g per cycle

• Efficiency Goal: >90% peel removal with <5% damage

5. Cutting Mechanism

• Method: Reciprocating blade system powered via camshaft

• Blades: Stainless steel rectangular grid (3×4 in., ~4×4mm)

• Operation:

  • Shallots drop into the cutting chamber post-peeling

  • A plunger pushes them through the blade grid during each cam stroke

• Speed: 30–60 strokes/min

• Output: Uniform cutting with minimal juice loss

6. Materials Used

• Food-contact parts: Stainless Steel (SS304)

• Frame: Metal steel for stability

• Abrasive Drum: Stainless steel with emery lining

• Motor & Pulley: Cast iron for durability

• Other parts: Shaft, steel bushings, pipe pockets, bearing cups

7. Methodology

• Design: Compact drum and blade assembly with modular, easy-to-maintain construction

• Fabrication: Components assembled onto a steel frame with accessible maintenance points

• Trials: Conducted to test peeling efficiency and cutting performance

Peeling Trials

• Trial 1: 3 minutes yielded fully peeled shallots; cleaned manually post-process

• Trial 2: Manual pre-removal of root ends; full peeling in 2 minutes

• Result:

  • Initial weight: 500g

  • Final weight: 394g

  • Peeling efficiency: 77.8%

  • Loss: 22.2%

8. Key Outcomes

• The machine is effective for small-scale use (households, catering, small food processors)

• Peeling and cutting are integrated into one seamless workflow

• Reduces labor, increases hygiene, and improves consistency

• Future improvements: Could include automatic head trimming and programmable settings

Conclusion

The tabletop shallot peeling cum cutting machine fills a critical gap in food processing by offering a compact, multifunctional, and efficient tool tailored for small businesses and home use. With its abrasive peeling, cam-based cutting, and user-centric design, the machine enhances productivity, hygiene, and safety in shallot preparation.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Ms. Maryamul Asiya M, Ms. Kabini V, Dr. S. Ramani. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.