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How to Control Pellet Hardness and Moisture Content

2025-07-23 08:58:00
How to Control Pellet Hardness and Moisture Content

The quality of animal feed requires appropriate pellets hardness and moisture content to achieve high quality. Particles that are too soft may break apart, while pellets that are too dry may be wasted. The following are some methods for controlling these aspects without involving complex technical procedures.

Why are particle hardness and moisture content important?

The standard hardness ensures that the pellets remain intact during storage and transportation, without causing damage or breakage.

Appropriate moisture content preserves the nutritional value of the food and inhibits mold growth.

Balanced pellets enhance animal digestion and reduce feed waste.

Methods for controlling pellet hardness

Adjust pellet mill settings.

When using harder pellets, apply greater roller pressure (but not so much that compression occurs).

To produce more durable pellets, use thicker ring dies.

Use a good steam temperature (typically 70-90°C) to provide better bonding.

Optimize feed formulation

Add natural binders such as wheat or starch (5-10% of the mixture)

Balance fiber content; excessive fiber content will soften the pellets

Ensure that it is ground to the appropriate particle size (smaller particles have better binding ability)

Effective moisture content management

During production

Use steam regulation (do not over-steam)

Optimal humidity before granulation: 15-18%

Use a grid with a simple hygrometer

After production

Use appropriate cooling methods to reduce moisture by 2-3%

Ensure sufficient drying time when necessary

Store granules in a dry, well-ventilated area

Quickly check quality

Hardness test: When squeezed, the particles should not break easily.

Moisture test: The particles should not be wet; they should be slightly moist.

Appearance treatment: Good particles should be smooth and free of cracks.

Frequently Asked Questions and Solutions

Problem Possible causes Solutions
Crushed particles Low moisture content, poor adhesion Adjust steam, add adhesive
Particles too hard Excessive pressure Reduce roller pressure
Mold growth High humidity Improve cooling/drying

Final Tip: Consistency is Key

The secret to perfect granules is consistency:

·Raw material quality

·Grinding size

·Steaming conditions

·Storage environment

We offer a complete pellet feed system at Shanghai Yuanyuda International Trade Co., Ltd., allowing you to enjoy the best hardness and moisture regulation. Our equipment uses standard devices, ensuring high production quality and low maintenance requirements.

Contact us today to learn how we can improve the quality of your feed pellets.