Seaweeds Processing (Village Level)

Constructing Seaweed Solar Dryer

Seaweed Industry in the Philippines plays a big role in the upliftment of the country’s economy. Fisherfolk in the countryside, however, engaged on seaweed culture/production encounter problems when drying harvested seaweed due to unpredictable weather condition. Special attention must be given especially during rainy months.

Different drying techniques were adopted and finally the National Seaweed Technology Development Center (NSTDC) came up with a solar drying facility appropriate for all seasons.

The NSTDC’s 30 sq. meters Seaweed Solar Dryer is made up of plastic roofing and walls and galvanized iron pipes as the skeletal structure and four lanes of double-decked drying racks, which can accommodate a maximum of 1,000 kg. fresh seaweeds.

The temperature inside the Dryer during sunny period is 7-8 °C higher than the outside temperature while 4 to 5 °C higher during rainy period. And, a 38% MC of seaweeds may be attained after 2-3 days drying period on sunny days. Also, Seaweed is less exposed to bacterial contaminants when dried using the said Dryer.

Cost Estimated of a 30 Sq. Meter Solar Dryer

I. Hardware Materials

• 16 pcs. 2×2x2′ Angle bar @ P470.00/pc – P 7,520.00
• 9 pcs. 1 1/2 dia. G.I. pipe sched. 40 @ P890.00/pc. – 8,010.00
• 9 pcs. 1 1/4 dia. G.I. pipe sched. 40@P795.00/pc.- 7,155.00
• 18 pcs. 1″ dia. G.I. pipe sched. 40 @ P530.00/pc. – 9,540.00
• 16 pcs. Wood racks @ P400.00/pc. – 6,400.00
• 30 bags Portland cement @P170.00/bag – 5,100.00
• 4 cu.m Washed sand @ P420.00/cu. m – 1,680.00
• 4 cu. m Well-graded gravel @ P500.00/CU. m – 2,000.00
• 60 pcs. 4″ C.H.B @ P8.00/pc. – 480.00

• Sub-Total – P 47,885.00
• Labor cost (35% of the Total cost of materials) – 16,579.75
• Total – P 64,644.75

II. Fabrication of plastic roofing and walls P 14,000.00

• Grand Total – P 78,644.75

For further information, contact:

Seaweed Information Office
National Seaweed Technology Development Center
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
Cabid-an, Sorsogon City
Phone: (056) 211-5213
Email: bfar_nstdc@yahoo.com

photo from eatingasia.typepad.com

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