EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH ON A FEED PELLETIZING EQUIPMENT DESIGNED FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED FISH FARMS

Abstract

Due to the recent rise in the price of energy and grains, purchasing high-quality pelletized food has caused significant challenges for small and medium-sized fishing farms. The present article aims to assist breeders and farmers with limited financial resources in producing high quality feeder by providing in detail the design and performance of a wet pelletizing equipment. The proposed pelletizing technology demonstrated high efficiency in use, reduced operating expenses, and a high productivity. Four different feed mixes were processed with the pelleting equipment, functioning with a 5 mm die. The experiment results indicated a maximum processing rate of 100 kg/h at an average pelletizing efficiency of 91.5%. The total pelletizing capacity of 0.8 - 1 tons per day is sufficient to provide feed for a medium-sized fishing farm, reducing dependence on the feed market and allowing for a simple nutritional mix customization.