Combined Natural Dye Extractor and Dryer Fabrication Process

Abstract

Much interest has risen in the use of natural dyes due to intensified awareness of the environmental and health hazards associated with synthetic dyes. This study fabricated a cost-effective dye extractor and dryer machines for optimal dye extraction process. The fabrication was carried out considering engineering principles, durability, optimum performance, serviceability, ease of operation and cost effectiveness. The machines use a three-phase electric power with heating elements of 2400 W attached to the water jacket to guarantee satisfactory heating of the materials as they pass through the bottom chamber. The machine efficiency was determined through extraction of natural dye from roselle flower, at optimum parametric conditions of temperature, time and feed material. The results obtained revealed throughput capacity of 4 g/min, machine and extraction efficiencies of 78.61 and 84% respectively. The fabricated machine produced a stable red coloured dye extract suitable for use in textile, food and pharmaceutical industries.