Studies on some Engineering Properties of Sapota (Achras zapota)

Abstract

Physical properties, namely size, ,shape, weight, density and frictional properties, namely peak static, peak dynamic and average dynamic coefficients of friction (COF) on four common construction surfaces, and mechanical properties, like puncture and compression with respect to storage period for sapota (Achras zapota) fruit were measured using standard procedures. The average geometrical mean diameter of sapota was 54.0 mm. Bulk and true densities of sapota were 584.9 kg/m³ and 1040.8 kg/m³. Peak static, peak dynamic and average dynamic COF of sapota varied from 0.24 (for rubber sheet) to 0.30 (for aluminum), from 0.34 (for stainless steel) to 0.39 (for rubber sheet), and from 0.26 (for rubber sheet) to 0.33 (for aluminum), respectively. The fruit firmness was measured as 325.6 on fourth and 240.7 N on sixth day of harvest.