Design and fabrication of a solar power operated cooking device for softening of tasar cocoons

Abstract

A cooking device has been designed and fabricated, by which tasar cocoons can be softened as per standard procedure using solar power plant generated electricity. Cooking efficiency of tasar cocoons remains at par with existing processand no difference of single cocoon reeling parameters and reeling performance softened by newly developed cooking device is observed. Due to difference of solar radiation in different seasons, the cost of cooking/softening varies between Rs. 50/- and Rs. 58/-, while using this device. Although, there is no difference in cooking cost as compared to normal/grid electricity consumption, but 17-30% expenditure can be reduced as compared to existing firewood usage. Utilization of preheated water from solar geyser enhances saving of energy by 12-55% vis-à-vis normal supply of water. In addition to cost effectiveness, this device also reduces the environmental pollution as compared to softening of cocoons using firewood.