| Popis: |
This study was conducted to investigate the mechanical behavior of apricot and cherry pits under compression loading along the three axial dimensions of the pits. The mechanical behavior was expressed in terms of force required to rupture of the pit, deformation at rupture point, deformation ratio (strain), energy absorbed and toughness. Also; masses and geometrical properties (axial dimensions, geometric mean diameter, sphericity and volume) of these pits were determined. These properties are necessary to design of cracking machines and knowledge amount of force and energy requirements for cracking operation. All experiments were carried out at moisture content of 9.81 and 12.92 %, (d.b.) for apricot and cherry pits, resp. The results showed that; the highest values of rupture force, deformation and energy required to crack the apricot pit were at loading position through the length axis, while; the lowest values were through the width axis, whereas; the highest values of rupture force, deformation and energy required to crack the cherry pit were at loading position through the thickness axis, while; the lowest values were through the width axis. In conclusion; the results obtained of the mechanical behavior of apricot and cherry pits indicated that; the compression through the width axis can be recommended for cracking process with minimum force and energy requirements. |
