UNS – A research team from the Faculty of Engineering (FT) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta has successfully carried out a Research and Community Service Program (P2M) in Daleman Village, Tulung District, Klaten Regency, titled “Pendampingan Perbaikan Sistem Produksi Tepung Aren” (Assistance in Improving the Palm Flour Production System). The program aims to increase the productivity of the local palm flour industry by introducing mechanization, specifically with the use of a grater and a palm extract squeezer.
The team members include Prof. Dr. Eng. Ir. Agus Purwanto, S.T., M.T.; Dr. Ir. Arif Jumari, M.Sc.; Dr. T. Ir. Endah Retno Dyartanti, M.T.; Dr. Ir. Adrian Nur, S.T., M.T.; Anatta Wahyu Budiman, S.T., Ph.D.; and Tika Paramitha, S.T., M.T.
Prof. Dr. Eng. Ir. Agus Purwanto, S.T., M.T., noted that the Battery and Advanced Materials Research Group, to which this team belongs, focuses on advancing battery technology and materials for diverse industrial applications. “We are committed to making a positive contribution to society through research and community service,” Prof. Agus Purwanto explained, as quoted from ft.uns.ac.id on Friday (4/10/2024).
In the initial phase, the team of battery and advanced materials experts conducted an in-depth survey to analyze the traditional and manual palm flour production methods. The survey revealed that grating and squeezing the palm extract were the most time-consuming and labor-intensive steps in the process. “As a solution, the team introduced two key tools: a grater and a squeezer designed to expedite and simplify production. We held a socialization event on September 21, 2024, to demonstrate these tools,” he added.
The researchers organized a socialization event in Daleman Village to demonstrate the importance of mechanization in improving the efficiency of palm flour production. During the event, the team provided a live demonstration, which was met with enthusiastic participation from the local community.
In addition to the socialization, the team provided intensive assistance to local farmers and palm flour producers to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the tools. This support is ongoing, with regular monitoring and evaluation.
The program has shown positive results, enhancing production efficiency while saving time and effort. The increase in palm extract output has allowed farmers to expand their production capacity and boost their income.
“This program’s success is expected to serve as a model for other community service initiatives in the future and to continue providing long-term benefits for the residents of Daleman Village and surrounding areas,” Prof. Agus Purwanto concluded.
Humas UNS
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
