The main objectives of this study were to design, build, and test a prototype of an on-field hemp fibre processor. The research was focused on building a mechanical means of picking up raw hemp stalks directly from the field in a harvested condition, and to perform separation of bast fibre and core in a continuous process.; The prototype used in this study was designed by analyzing the major functions of existing hemp processing machinery. The prototype was then constructed by modifying a conventional forage harvester to perform separation by breaking and scutching. A straw walker from a conventional combine was attached to this machine to separate loose core in the processed raw material by shaking and screening.; The prototype was tested under field conditions for several different treatments. The experimental factors considered were forage harvester configuration, straw walker speed, retting time, and material feedrate. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
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