Design, Modelling and Simulation of Feed Mixing Machine
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Scholarlink Research Institute Journals
Abstract
The idea of mixing various feed materials such as grains, feed supplements and other animal feeds to produce a
homogenous mix ready for dispensing for animal consumption had being part of man‟s activities since the
creation of man. This has always been done using crude method such as hands, sticks etc. in this recent time, the
advancement in technology has brought about the use of machines to perform the same function much faster,
accurate and less energy consuming. It is for this purpose that the feed mixing machine has been designed. The
objective of this project are to design a small feed fixing machine, to model and simulate the machine before
production, to fabricate component of feed mixing machine based on design specifications and to test the
machine after fabrication , while in designing and in material selection consideration was given to the tech economic status of the micro scale industries who are intended users of the machine. Feed mixing machines are
used in feed mills for the mixing of feed ingredients. The machine plays a vital role in the feed production
process, with efficient mixing being key to good feed production. If feed is not mixed properly, ingredients and
nutrients will not be properly distributed within a précised time. This means that the feed will not have even
nutritional benefit would be bad for the birds that are feeding on the feed. Feed mixing machine comprises of a
frame structure, the mixing chamber (a cylinder and cone structure) where other components such as electric
motor, shaft and hopper are mounted on. The mixing of feed to form a uniform ration is a regular need on large
stock poultry purposes. The mixing is performed by a vertical shaft which revolves continuously in a cylindrical
cone suspended by an iron bar. The relative motion of the shaft about the frame (body) is achieved by the use of
knuckle bearing. Mixing is done in the mixing chamber. The mixer is constructed to take a capacity of 30kg, but
the excess capacity of 40kg was provided to take care of overloading .this machine was powered by 1hp power
motor