Pelletizing on a pan pelletizer requires the help of a binding agent to achieve agglomeration. This is accomplished through the use of a spray system.
The binding agent, and the way it is dispersed, plays a role in successful agglomeration. The following variables should be taken into consideration when operating the spray system.
Location. The location of the spray can affect the size of the pellets, depending on the material being processed.
Amount. The amount of binder has to be proportional to the feed rate. Once seed pellets form, just enough spray needs to be added to create surface moisture to pick up growth material. With too little moisture, agglomeration stops. With too much moisture, the pellets stick to each other (think of an image similar to a raspberry).
Contact. As material is sprayed at the start-up, a coating will form on the pan. The binder should not come into contact with the pan, as it will cause build-up on the plows and result in large pellets and/or lumps.
It takes a trained eye and skilled set of hands to successfully pelletize a material. For more information on the principles of pelletizing, contact us today!