ARS | Publication request: Towards an Understanding of DDGS Flowability Characteristics

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 29, 2007
Publication Date: October 12, 2007
Citation: Bhadra, R., Muthukumarappan, K., Rosentrater, K.A. 2007. Towards an Understanding of DDGS Flowability Characteristics. ASABE/CSBE North Central Intersectional Conference, Fargo ND, October 12-13, 2007.

Technical Abstract: Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a major coproduct from the corn-based fuel ethanol industry, is primarily used as livestock feed. Due to high protein, fiber, and energy contents, there is a high demand for DDGS. Flowability of DDGS is often hindered due the phenomenon of “caking”. Shipping and handling of DDGS has thus become a major issue due to bridge formation between the DDGS particles. The objective of this investigation was to measure flowability of DDGS samples from five ethanol plants in the north central region of the U.S. Carr and Jenike tests were performed, and the resulting data will be presented and discussed. Angle of repose was found to range from 38° to 41°. Packed bulk densities ranged from 0.48 to 0.61 g/cm3. Angle of internal friction results ranged from 33.67° to 40.00°. Correlation results among the Carr and Jenike shear test properties were not strong correlated, and thus one experimental procedure cannot replace the other in terms of testing DDGS flowability. Quantifying DDGS flowability is a first step toward overcoming this challenge facing the industry.