Evaluating Hammermill Tip Speed, Air Assist, and Screen Hole Diameter on Ground Corn Characteristics

Whole yellow dent #2 corn was ground using two 43 mm Andritz hammermills (Model: 4330-6, Feed & Biofuel, Muncy, PA; JBS Live Pork LLC Mill, Fremont, IA). Both mills discharged to a shared plenum where samples were collected via sample port. Each mill equipped with 72 hammers and 300 HP motors on variable frequency drive (VFD). Corn 3 separate days create replication treatments randomized within replication. Treatments arranged in × factorial design tip speeds (12,383, 16,323, 20,263 ft/min); screen hole diameters (6/64, 10/64, 16/64 in.); air assist system fan RPM’s (60, 80, 100% of motor load). Samples each treatment analyzed for moisture, particle size, flowability characteristics. Particle size analysis completed 13-sieve stack the inclusion sieve agitators flow agent. Flowability characteristics evaluated composite index (CFI), which includes percent compressibility, angle repose (AoR), critical orifice diameter (COD). Data as PROC GLIMMIX procedure SAS grinding run experimental unit collection day blocking factor. There no 3-way interactions hammer speed geometric mean (dgw) or any corn. interaction standard deviation (Sgw), (linear linear flow, P = 0.029). (P 0.001) dgw. When increased from 12,383 ft/min, rate decrease dgw greater 6/64 in. An linear, 0.040) also observed CFI. The CFI results increasing when ft/min but differences 16,323 ft/min. (quadratic quadratic, load. Mill load decreased in., most significant reductions being screen. In conclusion, are viable options adjusting material hammermill, alongside traditional variations. Along range sizes capable produced, an level accuracy can be achieved adjustments minimal down time necessary changes.