Ring die pellet mill

Types of ring die pellet mills

A ring die pellet mill is a type of pellet press used to make pellets from powdered (fined) raw material. It is a large, heavy-duty machine with a vertical or horizontal die that presses the raw material into round pellets. Many large-scale companies use ring die pellet mills to create animal feed, biomass fuel, and other products.

According to the functional characteristics and structure, ring die pellet mills can be divided into the following types:

• Vertical ring die pellet mill

  In the vertical ring die pellet mill, the die is placed in a vertical position. It is an ideal feed pellet machine for livestock and poultry fodder. The design adds material gravity and helps produce pellets more quickly. The main motor power is smaller than horizontal models, so it uses less energy. However, it doesn't have adjustable speed and is generally for raw material with higher moisture.

• Horizontal ring die pellet mill

  The horizontal ring die pellet mill has a flat disk that is placed horizontally. Unlike vertical die pellet mills, it uses rollers to press raw material into the ring die's inner part to create pellets. Many models have different roller types, including fixed and rotating rollers. This type of pellet mill can make various feedstuff, including aquatic feed with special ingredient requirements. Also, the horizontal pellet press machine has a high output and can work with a mass production line. It is compatible with any kind of raw material and has a die replacement option.

  However, because it uses more motor power than vertical mills, it may not be as economical. The moisture requirement for raw material is also lower. Unless coated with oil, organic feed material will not be processed into pellets.

• Counter-flow granulator

  The counter-flow granulator works in the opposite direction to the material flow. It helps process materials fully and increases the density of materials in the die chamber, which shortens the time for material granulation. The equipment can make pellets with a smooth surface and a longer die. Therefore, it can manufacture pellets with a higher quality but lower output. The machine is more suitable for making feed products for livestock. The machine price is more affordable compared to other models with similar functions.

Specifications and maintenance of the ring die pellet mills

Specifications

• Capacity: The capacity of the ring die pellet mill can range from 300 kg/h to 80,000 kg/h, according to the varying models and specifications for different uses.
• Power: The power of the ring die pellet mill can be driven by different sources, such as electric motors, diesel motors, or hydraulic motors. The power usually ranges from 5.5 kw to 500 kw, depending on the driving way.
• Die: The ring die pellet mill comprises a pellet pressing roller and a ring die. The die's outer diameter and inner holes vary according to different specifications. The hole sizes also vary with different material requirements. The die's diameter usually ranges from 200 mm to 1,000 mm.
• Pellet sizes: The ring die pellet mill produces pellets in various diameters according to specific needs, such as animal feed, biomass fuel, etc. The diameter usually ranges from 3 mm to 20 mm.
• Materials: The material of the ring die pellet mill, such as molding parts and gears, is usually carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, etc., which can withstand higher pressure and temperature. The pellet mill also has a surface treatment, such as plating, painting, or spraying, which protects the machine from rust and corrosion.
• Dimension and weight: The dimension and weight of the ring die pellet mill vary according to different models and specifications. The dimension and weight are usually large and heavy, as the machine needs to provide a higher pressure.

Maintenance

• Lubrication: Lubricate the ring die pellet mill regularly to ensure it works properly and smoothly. Operators can apply lubricating oil to the bearings, gears, and other parts of the machine that need lubrication according to the lubrication schedule of the equipment.
• Cleaning: Cleaning the pellet mill die is also important to maintain the machine's efficiency and lifespan. Cleaning can avoid material residue and blockage and guarantee smooth pellets. Operators should clean the ring die pellet mill regularly and remove the residue and dirt, such as lime scale, debris, etc.
• Part replacement: Some parts of the ring die pellet mill will be worn out or damaged after a long period of use, such as the annular die, pressure roller, bearing, etc. These parts will affect the machine's operation and efficiency, so operators need to replace them with new parts.
• Check: Check the overall condition of the ring die pellet mill periodically to ensure that it is in good working condition. For example, check the fastening and sealing conditions of the parts, the wear and damage of the bearings, the adjustment of the belt, etc., and make the necessary maintenance and adjustment according to the equipment's requirements.
• Quality of raw materials: The quality of raw materials has a great influence on the ring die pellet mill. Poor-quality raw materials can cause more wear and tear to the equipment and damage, so users need to pay attention to the quality of raw materials and choose them carefully.

Usage scenarios of ring die pellet mills

Due to their efficiency and ability to produce large-scale pellets, ring die pellet mills are suitable for various industries.

• Agricultural sector

Farmers and agrologist use ring die pellet mills to make animal feed pellets. It ensures livestock has enough nutritious food. It also helps reduce waste from feed. The mills also make fertilizers. They compress raw organic matter into pellets. The pellets are easier to handle, transport and apply to plants.

• Forestry sector

The ring die pellet mills compress wood shavings, chips, and sawdust into heat and wood pellets. Heat pellets are used in pellet stoves for home heating, while wood pellets are used as a raw material in the production of wood-based panel products such as particleboard, fiberboard, and oriented strand board (OSB) or as a biomass energy source in pellet stoves and fireplaces.

• Livestock farms

Livestock farms that rear poultry such as chickens, ducks, and turkeys, ruminants such as cattle and sheep, and swine such as pigs make use of ring die pellet mills to produce animal feed pellets for their livestock. On swine farms, using pelletized feed can reduce feeding costs, improve feed efficiency, and help keep pigs healthy and clean.

• Biomass energy sector

Ring die pellet mills are used to make biomass energy pellets from agricultural and forestry waste. The biomass energy pellets are then used to produce energy to power homes or factories.

• Industrial-scale feed production

Large-scale feed manufacturers use ring die pellet mills to produce feed pellets for livestock. On some farms, they may lease out the pellet mills to save on production costs.

As shown above, ring die pellet mills are used in many sectors around the world because they are efficient and affordable. It is expected that the demand for ring die pellet mills will continue to grow in the future as more industries discover their benefits.

How to choose ring die pellet mills

Business buyers should consider the following factors before purchasing a ring die pellet mill.

• Production needs

  They should evaluate their production requirements in terms of capacity and the kind of material. Select a pellet mill whose capacity corresponds to the established needs. Additionally, select a pellet mill customized for particular material characteristics. For instance, some materials need special moisture content and must be left out.

• Die quality

  The durability and performance of a ring die pellet mill are significantly influenced by the die quality. Choose ring die mills made with sturdy, long-lasting materials. Choose those made of alloy steel with high wear resistance and longevity. Also, evaluate the die's design and hole specifications. Choose the die design that best meets one's material processing demands from a wide range of hole diameters and distributions.

• Producer's standing

  Choose the pellet maker producer after conducting sufficient research on different brands. Consider aspects like the manufacturer's experience, reputation, and customer reviews. Choose producers that provide dependable post-purchase support and assistance.

• Cost and budget

  Consider the budget and associated costs. While focusing on the long-term performance, maintenance, and operational expenses, choose a pellet mill that corresponds to the budget limitations.

• Extra features

  Some additional features can improve operational comfort and production efficiency. An example is a cooling system to control machine temperature. Another example can be an automatic lubrication system for specific pellet mills. When selecting the ring die pellet mill, consider the extra functions that can fulfill specific operational needs.

Q&A

Q: What is the difference between a ring die and a flat die pellet mill?

A: The two main types of die in a pellet mill help form pellets by shaping materials. However, they have different features and production capabilities. While the flat die pellet mill rotates horizontally, the ring die pellet mill rotates vertically. Secondly, the ring die pellet mill produces pellets in bulk and is suited for industrial use, while the flat die press pellet mill model is suitable for small scale production.

Q: Can a ring die pellet mill be mobile or portable?

A: Yes, some mills are portable or mobile and allow producers to manufacture pellets in various locations. These mills are usually lightweight and have a compact size. However, portability may affect the production capacity.

Q: What materials can a ring die pellet mill process?

A: The mill processes different materials depending on the die's specifications. Usually, it makes animal feed, organic manure, fuel biomass, and edible food substances from various material combinations.

Q: How noisy is a ring die pellet mill?

A: The machine makes noise between 80 and 120 decibels. Manufacturers suggest using noise protection equipment if the noise is above 85 decibels.