3.1.9  Moisture  control operation

Moisture control in the production of animal feed is desirable at several stages during the manufacturing process. With the ever varying moisture content in raw materials, on line measurement has become a key tool in ensuring optimum  efficiency and quality control. The ability to measure moisture and make any adjustments during the feed manufacture process becomes critical at several stages during the production cycle.

Benefits

•         Reduction in energy costs as the correct amount of energy required for drying can be accurately calculated

•         Reduction in amount of wasted materials

•         Consistent,  repeatable  quality   for   end product

Monitoring the moisture in the raw materials, controlling the water addition during the mixing/blending  process and finally checking the moisture of the feed in pellet form, not only ensures an end product with consistent quality, but will enable substantial savings to be achieved in the production process. The producer should know the levels of moisture in the raw materials and should be able to accurately calculate the amount of moisture that needs to be added to the mix to achieve the correct consistency of the end product. These known levels will also enable the producer to accurately calculate the drying time needed and therefore potentially reduce energy costs.