3.1.6 Molasses mixing operation
Molasses is an important cheap source of energy and hence is generally included in the feed formulation. Molasses is stored in MS storage tanks (Fig. 3.8). Quality of molasses should be checked for its density prior to transfer to storage tank. Batch after getting mixed in batch mixer is fed mechanically to the mixed feed bin above molasses mixer through elevator. The mixed feed is fed to the molasses mixer through loss in weight feeder for feed, where molasses at around 45-500C from molasses heater is sprayed and mixed in controlled quantities (Fig. 3.9). The molassed feed is either conveyed to finished feed bins for bagging if the feed is required in mash form or is allowed to ripen in a small bin for few minutes .The molassed feed is finally fed to pellet mill through its feeder and conditioner, if feed is to be produced in pellet form. Samples at random may be drawn from the feed coming out of the molasses mixer to test the quality of molasses mixed in feed. The material may be rubbed by hand and a typical texture and molasses aroma would approximately indicate the extent of molasses content in the material.
Fig. 3.8 Molasses storage tank
Fig. 3.9 Molasses mixing
