Optimization of the design of a 3 ton/h granulated panela homogenizer through real-time force monitoring

Description

The main objective of this research is to determine the internal forces generated in a panela homogenizer. Due to panela's clumping characteristics, several problems arise in the homogenizer. First, the theories and force calculations used for homogenizers of grains or dry products are not applied. The error in these designs is that they are designed as if the elements were non-clumping. With panela, it adheres to the walls and blades, causing significant friction and heat during homogenization. The estimated power for this type of traditional equipment at the same hourly flow rate is insufficient when using panela. It slows the blades due to friction and causes them to fail due to buckling.

The homogenizer being studied within an industrial plant dedicated to this activity currently does not discharge all the incoming panela, leaving a residue of one ton after the operation is completed. This is because the homogenizer is not perfectly cylindrical. There is no literature detailing the calculation of the forces that occur during panela homogenization based on the amount of panela entering the plant. Therefore, one objective of this work is to determine the relationship between the power required and the forces generated within the homogenizer that cause buckling failures in the equipment's helix.

Financier

Fondecyt – BIM.

Coordinator

Jorge Machacuay Arévalo.

Administrative coordinator

Zambrano Guard Relief.

Technical team

Jorge Machacuay Arévalo, Miguel Castro.