A Compact Laboratory Seed Extractor

Each fall we collect and process small lots of tree seed for experimental use. The species include black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.), Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.), western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.), lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl.), and other small-seeded species. We needed a compact seed extractor that could be stowed away when not in use. Finding none on the market, we designed and built one, described and shown here. This seed extractor has a capacity of one-half bushel of dry cones. It is simple, sturdy, and it can be built in a few hours.2 The hardware was bought locally or from a large mail-order house. The total cost of materials was about $75. Others may find the design useful. In essence, the extractor consists of a plywood box (fig. 1), cut in two and hinged to provide a deep lid and fitted with a revolving drum and a removable drawer. It is powered by a 1/4-horsepower electric motor, belted through two pairs of pulleys and an idler shaft to provide a drum speed of 60 r.p.m.

Download this file:

Download this file

Details

Author(s): A. S. Harris

Publication: Tree Planters' Notes - Volume 21, Number 3 (1970)

Volume: 21

Number: 3