The physical and engineering properties of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) are important for developing manual Nutmeg harvesting system and different process equipment machineries, for its mass handling and storage. Keeping this in view, a study was undertaken to determine these properties and fruit detachment force (FDF) of Nutmeg Cv Konkan Vishwashri. The average length, breadth and thickness of Nutmeg were found to be , and mm respectively. Whereas, the average sphericity and size or equivalent and mm respectively. The unit volume, surface area and projected area of the Nutmeg were found to be cm3, cm2respectively. The bulk density of matured fruit was found to be g/cm3. The average weight of matured whole fruit, nut, mace and pericarp were found to be , , , and respectively. The average fruit detachment force FDF for matured fruit was found to be . Similarly FDF/W ratio of matured and un-matured fruits were found to and kg/g respectively. | Determination of engineering properties and fruit detachment force (FDF) of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) fruit for harvesting purpose
