DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING,

The machine is developed to cut different metal materials with high precision using plasma
arc technology controlled by a computer system. The CNC plasma cutter improves cutting
accuracy, reduces manual effort, and increases productivity in metal fabrication industries.
The project includes the design process, material selection, fabrication of the frame,
installation of electronic components, and testing of the machine.

Due to the numerous challenges associated with conventional small-scale palm fruit digesters, such as low processing efficiency, poor hygiene, high material losses, and susceptibility to corrosion, the aim of this project was to design, fabricate, and evaluate an improved vertical palm fruit digester capable of enhancing performance and durability in small- to medium- scale palm oil processing. The methodology adopted involved the design and construction of the digester using stainless steel to improve corrosion resistance and hygiene. Key components such as the digestion drum, shaft, and agitator were carefully fabricated and assembled to ensure efficient mixing and fruit maceration. Fresh palm fruit bunches were sourced, sterilized by boiling, and then processed in controlled batches of varying masses (7 kg, 9 kg, and 10 kg). The performance of the machine was evaluated based on digestion time, throughput capacity, and effectiveness of mesocarp breakdown, as well as the quality of sludge produced. The results obtained showed that the developed digester was capable of processing a total of 36 kg of boiled palm fruit in 1020 seconds, with digestion time increasing proportionally with batch size. The machine achieved an average throughput of approximately 127 kg/hr, demonstrating improved efficiency compared to traditional small-scale digesters. Additionally, the digester produced well-macerated mesocarp and uniform sludge, indicating effective fruit breakdown and improved potential for oil extraction. The use of stainless steel also eliminated corrosion issues observed in mild steel designs, thereby enhancing durability and operational hygiene. The developed vertical palm fruit digester offers a significant improvement in efficiency, reliability, and product quality, making it a viable solution for small-scale palm oil processors seeking increased productivity and reduced operational losses.

This project focuses on the development of a 5kVA, 48V hybrid solar inverter systemaimedat providing a reliable and sustainable energy solution for domestic and small-scaleapplications. The system integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) energy with utility grid supplytoensure an uninterrupted power source, with solar energy serving as the primary supplyandthegrid as backup. A hybrid charging approach was adopted to maintain adequate battery capacity during periods of low solar irradiation. The inverter was designed to deliver a stable output suitable for powering commonhousehold and office appliances, while incorporating essential protection features to enhancesystem safety, efficiency, and reliability. Performance evaluation showed that the inverterprovided consistent output with smooth changeover between power sources and improvedenergy efficiency. The project demonstrates a cost-effective and environmentally friendlyalternative to fuel-powered backup systems, reducing dependence on the national gridandpromoting cleaner energy usage.

The continuous advancement in manufacturing and fabrication industries has led to the
development of numerous welding techniques designed to achieve high quality joints with superior mechanical performance. Among these, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, also referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), stands out for its precision, versatility, and ability to produce defect free welds on a variety of metals. The process is particularly effective for mild steel, which is extensively used in structural, automotive, and construction applications due to its good formability, weldability, and moderate strength (Singh & Sharma, 2020). However, achieving optimal weld quality in TIG welding is challenging because the mechanical properties of the welded joint depend on several interacting parameters, including welding current, welding voltage, gas flow rate, and welding speed. These parameters collectively determine the heat input, cooling rate, and solidification behaviour of the weld pool, which in turn influence responses such as hardness, tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, shear strength, and impact energy (Kumar & Yadav, 2018). Selecting the wrong combination of these parameters may result in weld defects, reduced mechanical strength, and inconsistent joint performance.

This project report presents the design and fabrication of a domestic heat extractor using locally sourced materials. The aim is to develop a cost – effective and energy – efficient device capable of removing excess heat from domestic cooking areas, thereby improving thermal comfort and safety in homes, particularly in developing regions where ventilation and cooling systems are often inadequate. The project involves a detailed study of heat transfer principles, material selection and fabrication processes tailored to locally available resources. Components such as the extraction fan, heat duct, aluminum casing and power source were designed and assembled using affordable and easily obtainable materials. Performance evaluation showed that the fabricated heat extractor effectively reduced heat concentration in enclosed kitchen spaces, improving air circulation and thermal comfort. The outcome demonstrates that domestic engineering innovations can be achieved sustainably using local resources, contributing to environmental protection, cost reduction and industrial development.