Introduction
Compressed air is a crucial component in feed mills, where it enhances efficiency, safety, and product quality in various processes. From grinding raw materials to packaging finished feeds, compressed air systems play an integral role in ensuring smooth operations in this essential industry.
Key Applications
Grinding and Mixing: Compressed air powers pneumatic conveying systems that transport and mix feed ingredients. This ensures even distribution and consistent particle size, critical for producing high-quality animal feed.
Pelleting Processes: In pelleting, compressed air is used to operate equipment that forms feed pellets. It helps maintain the necessary pressure and temperature, resulting in durable and nutritious pellets.
Dust Control: Feed mills generate significant amounts of dust during processing. Compressed air systems are employed in dust collection units to maintain a clean and safe working environment, reducing health risks for employees.
Packaging: Compressed air is essential for powering packaging machines that fill, seal, and label feed bags. This automation improves speed and accuracy in the packaging process, minimizing waste and enhancing productivity.
Quality Control: Compressed air is used in testing and inspection processes to ensure that feed products meet safety and quality standards. This includes checking for moisture levels and verifying the integrity of packaging.
Benefits of Compressed Air in Feed Mills
Increased Efficiency: Reliable compressed air systems reduce downtime and enhance productivity, allowing feed mills to meet demand consistently.
Cost Savings: Optimizing air usage and reducing energy consumption can lead to significant cost reductions in operations.
Flexibility: Compressed air systems can be adapted for various applications within feed mills, making them suitable for different production needs.
Safety: Using compressed air minimizes the risk of electrical hazards and helps maintain a cleaner work environment, promoting overall safety.
Conclusion
In feed mills, compressed air is vital for maintaining efficiency, safety, and product quality throughout the production process. By investing in reliable compressed air solutions, feed manufacturers can optimize their operations and ensure compliance with industry standards.
Piping Material Features Comparison |
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Piping Features | Stainless Steel(Type 304L) | Mild Steel | Blue anodized Aluminum Alloy |
Weight (Dia 6inch, Length 6m) | 127.2 | 169.6 | 29.142 |
Corrosion Resistant | Yes | No | Yes(100%) |
Pressure drop (Dia 2 inch Length= 20m,Airflow=3 cubic metres/Minute, Pressure=10 bar) | 0.25 | 0.4 Bar | 0.1 |
Energy Efficiency | High | Low-moderate | High( Potential Cost savings of 34%) |
Mechanical Strength | Very Strong | Very Strong | Strong |
High-Temperature Rating | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Installation Ease | Less Difficult | Difficult | Easy(High Flexibility and Modularity) |
Installation Time | Approx 6 feet length per hour | Approx 6 feet length per hour | Approx 45 feet Length per hour |
Work Hours/Manpower Required for a 2″ pipe and a 3000 feet piping | Approx 600 man-hours/8 men for 2 weeks | Approx 600 man-hours/8 men for 2 weeks | Approx 100 man-hours /8 men for less than 2 days |
Annual Cost(Installation, Commissioning, and operation) | Approx 3000 dollars | Approx 7820 dollars | Approx 1300 dollars |
Installation Cost Material%/Labor% | 30% / 70% | 25% / 75% | 80% / 20% |
Surface roughness | 0.03 | 0.05 | 0.001 |
Special Tools Required (welder, threader, groove cutter) | Yes | Yes | No |
Air Quality | High(Should the application require it, these pipe systems can help meet the requirements of ISO 8573-1: 2010 air quality standards. | Low( Not according to !SO 8573-2010 air quality standards) | High(Should the application require it, these pipe systems can help meet the requirements of ISO 8573-1: 2010 air quality standards. |
Cost per meter | Almost 2 less than Aluminum | 3 Times less than Aluminum | 163.64 Dollars(Parker Transair) |
Life Span( Will vary according to environmental factors, Pipe design, and Pipe grade. | 30 years | 40 years | 20 years |
Initial Cost of installations | Material : 30% Labor:70% | Material : 25% Labor:75% | Material : 80% Labor:20% |
Maintenance | Difficult(Accumulation of rust under pipes and fittings which travels to machinery, may require preventive maintenance every week) | Difficult (Accumulation of rust under pipes and fittings which travels to machinery may require preventive maintenance every 3-4 days) | Easy (No accumulation of rust, may require preventive maintenance every 4 Weeks) |