Principle of Ripening and Working Cycle
The plant is generally operated on 4-6 days ripening cycle. This 4-6 days ripening cycle comprises of:
- Operation: 14° to 23° C and > 90% RH. Pull down time (16 - 20 hrs) to 16° to 18° C
- Ethylene injection, after 24 hrs at constant room temperature of 18° or 19° C and >90% RH
- Holding period 16-12 hrs. (total 24 hrs from start of ehytlene injection) temperature held at 18° or 19° C and 90% RH
- Ventilation after 24hrs after ethylene injection. Ethylene and CO2 is expelled out and fresh air in injected in cold room. CO2 level not to exceed 5000ppm during ripening process
- Holding period for 3-4 days till coloration. Temperature can be reduced gradually to 14° to 16° C for enhancing the shelf life of the fruit.
- Air distribution system for uniform ripening of banana in palletized crates with sy=uitable air bypass sealing system for the crates.