DEVELOPMENT OF AN ADJUSTABLE HOPPER FOR HAMMER MILL

• Olutomilola E. O.

  Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

• Otokola T. O.

• Ajayi V. A.

  Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and preliminary testing of an adjustable hopper. The design process involved sketching and modeling of the hopper using Solidworks computer-aided design (CAD) application software. The hopper design allows for the adjustment of the hopper’s angle of repose, allowing for greater control over the flow rate of materials being milled. Stainless steel was selected for the hopper’s fabrication because it was the material used for fabricating the hammer mill and is a food-grade material. A finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted to evaluate the hopper's structural integrity and durability. Prior to fabrication, the FEA results indicated that the hopper design was suitable for fabrication. A preliminary test was conducted on the hopper after fabrication, and it was discovered that making the hopper’s angle of repose adjustable allows the operator to control the flow rate of materials being introduced into the milling chamber. This will help improve the overall efficiency of the hammer mill. More testing and monitoring are recommended to validate the hopper’s long-term performance and economic benefits.

1. Olutomilola E. O., Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

   Industrial and Production Engineering Department, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

2. Otokola T. O.

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3. Ajayi V. A., Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria

   Industrial and Production Engineering Department

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