Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mustard Seeds Cultivated in North Eastern Hilly Region of India

Abstract

The physical and mechanical properties of mustard seeds cultivated in the North Eastern Hills (NEH) region were investigated at five different level of moisture content i.e., 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%to know how it affects the physical and mechanical properties of mustard seeds to optimize the seed handling, processing and sowing operations. It was found that the average size of seeds like mean diameter, surface area, thousand seed weight were increased where as the bulk density, true density and porosity of seeds was decreased when the increasing moisture content. Mechanical properties i.e. static coefficient of friction and angle of repose were increasing and decreasing, respectively as the moisture content increase. With increasing moisture content from 10 to 12% dry basis the average diameter, surface area, thousand grain weight, coefficient of static friction and bulk density, true density, porosity, angle of repose was found from 2.13 to 2.29 mm, 6.71 to 7.21 mm2, 5.22 to 6.10 g, 0.28 to 0.51 and 807 .99 to 778.41 kg cm-3, 1250.90 to 1122.86 kg cm-3, 35.41 to 30.67%, 23.65 to 21.46 degree, respectively. These physical attributes provides a crucial data for designing agricultural machinery components such as seed hopper, ensuring precise seed metering, uniform delivery, and optimal seed placement in the field. Understanding these properties aids in efficient seed handling and contributes to improved planting efficiency and crop establishment. The study highlights the importance of these parameters in mechanized farming and provides a scientific basis for developing region-specific agricultural equipment, enhancing productivity and resource utilization. This research supports better development of seed drills, planter metering plates and augments the overall effectiveness of mustard cultivation in the NEH region by aligning machinery design with locally adapted seed characteristics.