High velocity impact of maize kernels.

摘要

A comparison of the specific energy of fracture of 3 maize (Zea mays) cultivars of different moisture contents (m.c.) at varying impact velocities was carried out. For samples of m.c. <22%, specific energy decreased slightly as velocity increased upto 37 m/s, after which there was a rise in the specific energy. Two samples of m.c. >22% (FERZ 7 and SR 52) required a higher optimum velocity due to the softness of the grain. In every case an increase in m.c. resulted in an increase in specific energy(over the m.c. range 10-20%, the specific energy typically increased by 100%). The specific energy requirement varied significantly for the 3 cultivars, SR 52 requiring the lowest energy followed by FERZ 34, and FERZ 7 requiring the highest. The minimumimpact velocity required to cause fracture varies with moisture content but is generally ?0 m/s. Hammer mills could be run more efficiently and effectively if the hammer width was more carefully controlled to suit the product, the moisture content waskept as low as possible, and there was a variable speed facility to suit the fineness required.