The study comprised investigations based on the physical and mechanical properties of maize cobs and kernels using the ameliorated or upgraded threshing machine. The study considers the maize seeds classification into two shape categories of round and flat, based on their positional characteristics and dimensions. The measurement criteria included the average seed thickness (hor), width (bor), and length (lor). Additionally, the seed dimensions and mass determination primarily depended on the 1000-kernel weight and the scrutiny of variations in the biometric traits, moisture content, and other internal properties of various cultivars. The size and mass traits of the cob and its core, the frictional and aerodynamic properties, the natural inclination angle of the kernel, and the static forces affecting its dispersion also entailed analysis. The promising results can serve as a baseline for optimizing the threshing machine and minimizing kernel losses during postharvest processing.
Maize (Z. mays L.), cob size, maize kernels, kernel mass and size, moisture, correlation, frictional properties, postharvest processing
Physical and mechanical properties of maize (Z. mays L.) cobs with different maturity stages helped in selecting proper parameters and operating modes in the threshing machine used in postharvest processing to minimize yield losses.