Start to end - Coco peat / Coco fiber Production process | NB Coir

The production process for coco peat (also known as coir pith) and coco fiber, derived from coconut husks, involves several steps from raw material collection to the final product. Here's a step-by-step overview:
1. Raw Material Collection
Coconut Harvesting: Coconuts are harvested from coconut trees. The husks, which make up the outer layer of the coconut, are separated from the nut.
Husk Collection: The husks are collected and transported to processing facilities.
2. Husk Soaking
Water Soaking: The husks are soaked in water for several weeks to soften the fibers and make them easier to process. Traditionally, this is done in freshwater ponds or in saline water, depending on the desired quality of the coir.
Mechanical Soaking: Some modern facilities use mechanical methods to accelerate the soaking process.
3. Fiber Extraction
Decorticating: The soaked husks are processed through a decorticating machine that crushes and beats them to separate the coir fibers from the pith (coco peat).
Sieving and Sorting: The separated coir fibers are then sieved and sorted based on length and quality. The longer fibers are typically used for making products like ropes, mats, and brushes, while shorter fibers are used for other purposes.
4. Coco Peat Processing
Drying: The extracted coco peat, which is the by-product of the fiber extraction process, is dried to reduce moisture content. This can be done naturally in the sun or using mechanical dryers.
Screening: The dried coco peat is then screened to remove impurities and to achieve the desired particle size. The fine particles are used for making coco peat blocks or briquettes.
Compression: The screened coco peat is compressed into blocks, bricks, or bales of various sizes and densities, making it easier to transport and use in horticulture.
5. Coco Fiber Processing
Drying: The extracted coir fibers are dried to reduce their moisture content. This can be done naturally in the sun or using mechanical dryers.
Twisting and Spinning: The dried fibers are twisted into yarns or ropes. This step is essential for producing various coir products like mats, brushes, and geotextiles.
Baling: The processed fibers are then baled for transport. These bales can be used directly or further processed into finished products.
6. Quality Control
Inspection: Both coco peat and coco fiber undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure they meet industry standards. This includes testing for moisture content, particle size, and purity.
Packaging: The final products are packaged according to customer specifications, whether in bags, blocks, or bales.
7. Shipping
Export Preparation: The packaged coco peat and coir fiber products are labeled and prepared for export. This includes documentation and compliance with international trade regulations.
Transportation: The products are shipped to various international markets, including Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Japan, and China.
8. End Use
Coco Peat: Used as a soil conditioner, growing medium for horticulture, and as a component in potting mixes.
Coco Fiber: Used in the production of mats, brushes, ropes, geotextiles, and other coir-based products.
This comprehensive process ensures that high-quality coco peat and coir fiber are produced efficiently, meeting the needs of various industries worldwide.