DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF SUGARCANE CROP WASTE PELLETIZER AS ANIMAL FEEDS

Abstract

This study was conducted to design and develop sugarcane crop waste pelletizer as aninal feeds). The influence on the pelletizing capacity, chemical and quality of feeds/ pelleted feeds were examined such as the pellet diameter (5, 10 and 15 mm), speed (90, 105 and 120 rpm) and amount of sugarcane tops (5, 10 and 15%) using Response Surface Methodology. The PhilMech developed pelletizer composed of 3 major components: barrel, die and a prime mover. It produces pelleted feeds of uniform quality in terms of shape, diameter and degree of compactness. The pelletizer die can be changed to different hole diameter such as 5 mm, 10 mm, and 15 mm. The optimum condition of sugarcane tops-based pelleted feeds to achieve the capacity (97.15 kg/hr), bulk density (1.03 kg/m3), pellet durability index (91.13%), hardness (61.19 kgf), crude protein (6.78 %w/w), crude fiber (10.73 %w/w), and ash content (28.69 %w/w feeds are 15 mm, speed of 109 RPM and 8% sugarcane tops. Investment analysis showed that the break-even point of feed pellets is P96.23/ kg.

Sugarcane tops-based pelleted feeds can be a viable option as animal feed. It can be an additional income to sugarcane farmers and at the same time eradicate the waste problem on sugarcane tops that are being burned in the field. Establishment of village-type sugarcane tops-based pelleted feeds plant in major producing areas is recommended.