Optimization of granular waste production based on mechanical properties

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Animal Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Pellet production from food and agricultural wastes offers a sustainable method for livestock feed.
• The mechanical properties of these pellets are critical for efficient handling and transportation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mechanical properties of pellets produced from waste materials.
• To evaluate the impact of feedstock moisture content, particle size, drying temperature, and infrared radiation power on pellet quality.

Main Methods:

• Pellets were produced from two different diets and dried using a laboratory convective hot air dryer.
• Investigated effects of feedstock moisture content (0.54-1.2 kgw/kgDM), particle size (<0.4 mm to 1.2-2 mm), drying temperature (318-348 K), and infrared power (0-1000 W).
• Assessed pellet durability, impact resistance, and compressive strength.

Main Results:

• Mechanical properties improved with decreased particle size.
• Feedstock moisture content significantly influenced pellet durability, impact resistance, and compressive strength.
• High drying temperatures and infrared power negatively impacted mechanical properties.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing raw material combinations and pelleting/drying conditions is crucial for producing high-quality livestock feed pellets.
• Diets with lower fat and neutral detergent fiber content resulted in superior pellet quality.