A maize sheller is a machine that is handheld used to separate cobs from the grain for some uses such as feeding the livestock. A maize sheller is operated either by power or manually. The foliage is first removed manually before shelling. This article explains how to maintain a maize sheller to increase its durability.
When going to the market to purchase a maize sheller, one does not intend to go back to the market any time soon to purchase another one. As far as the quality of a product is concerned, maintenance practices have to come in handy to ensure its durability.
The following points should be noted concerning a maize sheller
1. lubrication
Continuous use of a maize sheller for a long time is unadvised. Lubrication should be done either once a month, or twice. This reduced the level of friction between the various parts of a maize sheller hence reducing the wearing off and increasing durability.
2. consider purchasing it from a reliable manufacturer
When one purchases any product from a manufacturer who is reliable means acquiring a quality one. It also gives one a sense of assurance of reliability and durability of the product. The same case applies to a maize sheller. The maize sheller price in Kenya is triggered by its quality. Most of the small manufacturers use spare parts that are of low price leading to a sheller machine of low quality.
These machines are then sold at lower prices unlike those from manufacturers who are reputable whose price is relatively higher. Hence, to acquire a shelling machine that is of high quality and easy to maintain, one should be ready to incur a higher purchasing expense.
3. Corresponding power
As far as one wants to operate a maize sheller faster, he or she is not allowed to increase the engine or monitor power above the power recommended. This is because the higher the power above the recommended, the more the vibration is violent. As a result, some of the parts in the maize sheller end up being damaged, or the fasteners end up loosening.
4. Greasing
For every machine that is made of some iron parts, greasing is recommended. This includes a maize sheller. To prevent these parts from rusting, a layer of grease is introduced altering the process of oxidation of the iron-based products. This increases both the workability and durability of the maize sheller.
How to clean a maize sheller
Cleaning is part of the regular maintenance practices that should be done on the shelling machine.
- For easy opening of the machine, the sheller is bolted. To clean the internal debris, one should open all the parts.
- Cleaning the straws and mud of every driving belt ensures maintenance of balance for the wheel.
- The v-belt should not be exposed to either alkali or acidic substances.
Conclusion
This article indicates the maintenance practices that should be carried out on a maize sheller despite its high quality. It can be used for reference to know more about the maintenance of a sheller machine to increase its durability.