Scientific Journal of KubSAU

Efficiency of tobacco green leaf processing can be increased by utilizing innovative equipment and technology improving. As a part of research and postgraduate work technology and equipment for tobacco green leaf processing were elaborated. Elaborated equipment consists of set of devices for preparing tobacco leaves for drying, drying and packaging of dry tobacco. Basic element of the equipment is double-sided needle, designed for threading the tobacco leaves and their further curing directly on the needle. The set of devices is patented and has passed experimental testing. This equipment is implemented in scientific and economic activity of the institute. Testing the equipment for large quantities of tobacco has proved the efficiency of new technology for preparing and curing the tobacco leaves and confirmed the validity of technical solutions and characteristics of manufactured equipment. It is determined that 50 devices for double-sided needle arrangement are sufficient per 1 ha of tobacco field. Leaf mass per one double-sided needle can reach 3 – 4.5 kg, depending on weather conditions. Carried experiments have proved the necessity of cutting the upper part of the petioles when placing long stemmed tobacco sorts and periodic distribution of leaves on the needle during the curing. Performing these operations led to obtaining the cured tobacco of high quality. Results of the semi-industrial experiments have proved the efficiency of elaborated technology. Utilizing of innovative equipment is recommended for industrial production of dried tobacco