Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research
Project Number: 6042-30500-001-005-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 22, 2025
End Date: Sep 30, 2026
Objective:
1. Development of a test-bed to study the mechanical properties for the pecan shell fracture.
2. Study multiple alternatives and technologies to improve the yield of the pecan shelling process.
3. Investigation and implementation of advanced manufacturing techniques and technologies in post harvesting pecan processing.
Approach:
The proposed approach will combine mechanical engineering knowledge to understand the pecan shell fracture and bring a comprehensive study of design alternatives to crack the pecan shell while improving the yield of “full meats”. In addition, a
process mapping approach to identify opportunities for production improvement will be conducted with a particular emphasis in process modernization. Process improvement will focus on a continuous problem solving approach where the process
needs will be decomposed in potential opportunities. The UGA team will bring expertise in agriculture, mechanical engineering and manufacturing engineering and will involve an integrative team of undergraduates and graduate students from different disciplines.