A method and machine for the treatment of sugar or fodder beet seed clusters

... 881,844. Treating beet seeds. AGRIMPEX MEZOGAZDASAGI KULKERESKEDELMI VALLALAT. July 29, 1958, No. 24463/58. Class 58. In treating sugar- or fodder-beet seed clusters, particularly polyploids, to improve the germinating power, the clusters are rubbed against each other, under their own weight, to effect removal of their outer integuments and associated bacteria, parasites, eggs thereof and weed seeds. The clusters, e.g. together with an abrasive subtance such as quartz sand, are fed into a container 1, having an upper cylindrical part and a lower frustoconical part 4, and are agitated by blades 3 secured to a rotating shaft 2, e.g. at a pitch so as to propel the seeds downwards. The seeds are discharged through openings 6 in the base 5 and a turnably adjustable plate 7. Powder produced during agitation may be drawn off by suction. The treated seeds may be subjected to sieving or screening to isolate single seeds, double seeds and larger clusters and any abrasive substance present.