Optimization of indented cylinder rice separator parameters using RSM for enhanced sorting efficiency and reduced loss

Abstract

This research aimed to optimize the configuration of an indented cylinder rice separator using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The study employed the Box-Behnken Design (BBD) with three center points to investigate the impact of sieve slope, trough angle, and sorting duration on efficiency and loss. The results demonstrated that all three factors significantly influenced the performance of the machine. By increasing the sieve slope and sorting duration while adjusting the trough angle closely to zero, the loss percentage decreased significantly, leading to improved sorting efficiency. A quadratic model was employed to determine the optimal conditions for the studied factors. The analysis revealed that a 2-degree sieve slope, a -0.1 scale of the trough angle, and a sorting duration of 120 seconds achieved a minimum loss of 0.42% and a maximum efficiency of 97.29%. Validation experiments confirmed that the actual performance closely matched the predicted values. This optimized condition provides practical guidelines for implementing the studied factors in a continuous type of indented cylinder rice separator.