A number of machines for the field in-field avacuation of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) have been introduced to the oil palm industry. These machines are generally suitable for use in dry and flat areas, and to some extent in wet areas. The choice of machine is merely dictated by the estates’ ground conditions. One system that is well accepted by the oil palm industry is the mini-tractor with a trailer. It performs very well in hard, dry and flat or slightly undulating areas. However, this trail system is not effective in soft and soggy areas. Poor traction prohibits the usage of mini-tractor on soft ground such as in coastal and peat areas. Initially, it was thought that this problem could be overcome by having flotation tyres fitted on it in place of conventional tyres.

Main Researcher: Abd Rahim Shuib