Development and evaluation of a COOI24m pelletizer

Abstract

It is essential to formulate appropriate feeding pellets with the required nutrient compositions for poultry animals to meet the growing demand for protein through the provision of eggs and meat. Forming the required feed concentrates into pellet-mash requires a pelletizing machine, which is, in most cases, very expensive for the local farmers due to the high foreign exchange rate. Based on this, the study focuses on the development of a simple and affordable pelletizing machine from locally sourced materials. The machine consists of a frame, hopper, die roller, pelletizer, and internal combustion (5.5 hp), and it was run at 950, 600, and 450 revolutions per minute. The formation and discharge of pellets from the machine increased with the pelletizing efficiency (Pe) of 70.3% to 84.6% at a moisture content (MC) of 15.8% to 27.1%, and the Pe decreased at a moisture content above 29.0%. Also, the drying temperature (DT) has a significant effect on the pellet moisture content (MC) and bulk density at P > 0.05. The effects of weather conditions on pellets produced using the COOI24m pelletizer were assessed in this study. The analysis showed that changes in weather conditions had an insignificant effect on the quality and properties of the pellets. The machine is highly recommended for use by small-scale livestock farmers for the local production of pellet-mash of different compositions because of its affordability, ease of use, and high working efficiency.