ANALISIS PENGARUH KETEBALAN IRISAN TERHADAP KUALITAS IRISAN DAN EFISIENSI WAKTU PENGIRISAN PADA MESIN PENGIRIS TEMPE

Abstract

The tempe processing industry plays a strategic role in food security and the local economy, especially within small and medium enterprises. However, productivity challenges remain, particularly in the slicing process, which impacts the quality and efficiency of production. This study investigates the effect of tempe slice thickness variation (2 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm) on slice quality (categorized as intact and damaged) and slicing time using a specific performance cutting machine. It addresses the research gap where previous studies have not optimized the relationship between slice thickness and the drive motor performance of tempe cutting machines. The objective is to analyze the influence of slice thickness on quality, time efficiency, and motor performance. An experimental method was employed, varying slice thickness and measuring slice quality and cutting time using quantitative data analyzed descriptively and comparatively. Results showed a significant impact of slice thickness on both quality and time efficiency; 4 mm slices yielded the best quality with the highest intact slice percentage, whereas 2 mm slices resulted in the shortest cutting time. In conclusion, optimizing slice thickness and motor performance is essential to produce high-quality tempe slices with maximum time efficiency. These findings are significant for developing tempe slicing machine technology that enhances productivity and competitiveness for MSMEs.