How do I make my own pellet feed?

For farmers, homemade feed pellets can not only reduce the cost of farming, but also flexibly adjust the formula according to the needs of livestock and poultry, and improve the utilization rate of feed. This paper centers on the core function of feed pellet mill, combined with the actual farm scene, to provide a set of technical solutions that can be landed, covering the whole process of equipment selection, raw material processing, formula design, pelletizing process and maintenance management.

preparatory phase

• Preparation of raw materials
• Crushing raw materials: corn, soybean meal, wheat bran, straw and other raw materials crushed to the appropriate particle size, generally to be able to pass 2-4mm sieve for appropriate.
• Raw material ratio: according to the type of breeding animals and growth stage to determine the formula. For example, pig feed can be mixed according to the proportion of corn 60%, soybean meal 20%, wheat bran 15%, premix 5%; chicken feed can be prepared according to the proportion of corn 58%, soybean meal 25%, fish meal 5%, wheat bran 7%, premix 5%.
• Additives: add vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other additives as needed to ensure balanced feed nutrition.

Equipment inspection

• Pellet mill inspection: Check whether the parts of the feed pellet mill are in good condition, such as the pressure roller, ring die, transmission system, etc.. Make sure the equipment is not loose, worn or damaged.
• Lubrication and maintenance: lubricate the bearings, gears and other parts of the pellet mill to ensure smooth operation of the equipment.

manufacturing process

Raw material mixing

• Put the crushed raw materials and additives into the mixer according to the formula ratio, mix well, so that all kinds of raw materials and additives are fully integrated.
• Mixing time is generally controlled in 5-10 minutes to ensure uniformity.

moisture regulation

• According to the characteristics of the raw material and the requirements of the pellet machine, add the appropriate amount of moisture. Generally speaking, the moisture content of raw materials should be controlled between 12%-18%.
• Water can be sprayed evenly through the water spraying equipment, spraying water while mixing, so that the water can fully penetrate into the raw material.

Pellet mill type selection

Pellet mill operation

• Preheating: Start the pellet mill, let it idle for 5-10 minutes to preheat, so that the equipment reaches a suitable working temperature.
• Feeding adjustment: add the mixed raw materials into the feeding port of the pellet mill slowly, and adjust the feeding speed according to the fluidity of the raw materials and the running condition of the pellet mill.
• Pellet Forming: After the raw material enters the pelletizing chamber of the pellet mill, pellets are formed under the extrusion of the pressure roller and ring die. The size and hardness of the pellets can be controlled by adjusting the gap between the pressure roller and the ring die.

Follow-up processing

• Screening and grading
• Use screening equipment to screen and grade the pellets to remove powder and unqualified pellets to ensure the uniformity and quality of pellets.
• Packaging and storage
• Pack the screened pellet feed, which can be packed in plastic bags, woven bags and other packaging materials. Pay attention to sealing when packing to prevent moisture and pollution.
• Store the packed pellet feed in a dry, ventilated and cool warehouse, avoiding direct sunlight and high temperature environment.

Cost control and innovation direction

Cost Reduction and Efficiency Strategies

• Raw material substitution: cassava replaces 30% corn, rapeseed meal replaces part of soybean meal, cost reduction of 10-15%.
• Energy optimization: Recycling of water for pelleting friction heat preheating and tempering, energy saving rate ≥12%.
• Mould life extension: regular lubrication can enhance the life of 30%, acid washing reuse to save replacement costs.

Functional granule development

• Fermented feed pellets: add probiotics (e.g. lactobacillus 0.2%) to enhance digestibility by 20%.
• Herbal health pellets: Oxalis decoction replaces 5% conditioned water, reducing livestock morbidity by 30%.

precautionary

• Raw material quality: choose high quality, no mold, no impurity raw materials to ensure the quality and safety of feed.
• Equipment maintenance: regular maintenance of the feed pellet mill, check the wear and tear of the equipment, timely replacement of wearing parts to ensure the normal operation of the equipment.
• Operation safety: when operating the feed pellet machine, strictly abide by the operating procedures, pay attention to safety protection, to avoid accidents.
• Quality inspection: Regularly conduct quality inspection on the made pellet feed, including nutrient composition, moisture content, particle hardness and other indexes, to ensure that the feed meets the breeding requirements.