How can we ensure that the particle size is uniform in aquatic feed production lines?

 

 

The precision requirements for particle size in aquatic feed are far higher than those for poultry and livestock feed (e.g., fish fry feed requires a diameter of 1-2 mm, and adult fish feed requires 3-5 mm). Uneven particle size not only prevents fish fry from feeding (coarse particles) or adult fish from being picky eaters (fine particles), but also affects feed buoyancy (fine particles sink easily, while coarse particles float for too long), leading to feed waste and water pollution. Many manufacturers continue to use poultry and livestock feed equipment for aquatic feed production without adaptation, which is the core reason for uneven particle size.

 

 

1.Mismatch between ring die selection and aquatic feed characteristics

 Reasons: Using ordinary poultry and livestock feed ring dies (die length-to-diameter ratio 1:6-1:8) to produce aquatic feed, while aquatic feed (especially floating feed) requires higher pressure extrusion. Insufficient length-to-diameter ratio leads to uneven particle density; some particles break due to insufficient pressure, while others form coarse, hard particles due to excessive pressure. Insufficient smoothness of the die inner wall (Ra>1.6μm) results in uneven frictional resistance during raw material extrusion, causing deviations in particle diameter.

 

 Solutions: Select a dedicated ring die based on the type of aquatic feed-use a ring die with an length-to-diameter ratio of 1:10-1:12 for floating feed and 1:8-1:10 for sinking feed to ensure sufficient particle extrusion; select a ring die with polished inner wall (Ra≤0.8μm) to reduce raw material extrusion resistance; when installing the ring die, use a dial indicator to check the runout of the ring die end face (≤0.1mm) to avoid particle size differences caused by ring die eccentricity.

 

 

2.The roller design cannot meet the requirements of aquatic feed raw materials.

 Reasons: When using flat rollers to produce aquatic feed (containing a high proportion of fishmeal and fish oil), the rollers lack sufficient gripping force on the raw materials. The raw materials slide within the ring die, resulting in excessive accumulation of raw materials in some areas, forming coarse particles, while insufficient raw materials in other areas produce fragments. Inappropriate roller hardness (Shore hardness <75 degrees) leads to surface deformation from long-term compression of high-oil raw materials, resulting in uneven contact with the ring die and fluctuations in particle size.

 

 Solutions: Replace with aquatic feed-specific rollers – select rollers with a diamond-patterned surface (pattern depth 0.5-0.8mm) to improve gripping force on high-oil raw materials; choose wear-resistant rubber rollers with a Shore hardness of 78-82 degrees to extend service life; when adjusting the gap between the rollers and the ring die, refer to the oil content of the raw materials (adjust the gap to 0.3-0.4mm when oil content >5%, and 0.2-0.3mm when oil content <5%) to ensure uniform compression of the raw materials.

 

3.The cutter configuration is not adapted to the length requirements of aquatic feed pellets.
 Reasons: The length of aquatic feed pellets needs to be strictly controlled (e.g., a 2mm diameter pellet should be 3-5mm long). If the cutter speed is too low (<1000r/min), the pellets cannot be cut in time after extrusion, and they become longer due to gravity (over 6mm); there are not enough cutters (only 2), resulting in uneven force on the pellets during cutting, causing "slanted cuts" or differences in length; the cutter material is not wear-resistant (ordinary carbon steel), and the blades become dull quickly, unable to cut coarse pellets, resulting in uneven pellet length.

 

 Solution: Adjust the cutter speed according to the particle length requirements-1200-1500 rpm for particles with a diameter of 1-2mm, and 800-1200 rpm for particles with a diameter of 3-5mm; use a cutter head with 4-6 cutters to ensure even force distribution when cutting particles; replace the cutter with a high-speed steel cutter (hardness HRC60 or higher), and sharpen the blade every 8 hours of production to maintain sharpness.

 

 

 

 

MIKIM boasts extensive experience in poultry feed pellet production lines, significantly reducing the incidence of poultry diseases. Its equipment is not only widely used across various industries domestically but also exported to Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America, earning a high reputation internationally. This global presence not only demonstrates the adaptability and competitiveness of its products, but also demonstrates the company's experience in adapting to diverse market standards and logistics conditions, enabling it to provide a stable supply chain for its overseas customers. Whether serving large domestic farms or cross-border feed companies, MIKIM can leverage its global service network to ensure a consistent, high-quality experience.

 

For more information on process flow design, equipment layout, factory construction plans, individual equipment pricing, or turnkey project proposals, please feel free to contact us!!!

 

 

 

1. What is the price of the production line for making pet food?

The price ranges from approximately $10,000-$44,000

2. Do you provide maintenance services for your customers?
Yes, we offer comprehensive after-sales maintenance services to our customers.

 

 

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