From the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology
For immediate release
GRANULES MAKE ANIMAL FEEDING SAFER
Feeding animals with dry materials will soon be less dusty and less wasteful, and will improve the working environment
and animal health if the results of a joint research project are as successful as expected.
The project, by Bomac Laboratories Ltd of Auckland and Massey University, aims to reduce the dust in animal feed by
granulating it. "Dust extraction is a common feature in feed compounding facilities, but it can remove some essential
micronutrients and medicants that have been added to the feed," says Bomac managing director Don McLaren.
"Granulation will prevent this happening and improve the stability of these ingredients in the feed."
He says better mixing of vitamins and minerals is achieved if the particle size of additives matches that of feed. The
consistent mixture won't settle, as occurs when powder is added to feed.
"Improved dispersibility of micronutrients and medicants also ensures optimum intake of these nutrients." Mr McLaren
says.
Bomac arranged with post-graduate student Stephen Werner and Dr Jim Jones, of Massey University's Institute of
Technology and Engineering, to work on the project. The project is supported by Technology New Zealand, which invests in
research into new products, processes or services as part of the Government's plan to fashion a knowledge-based economy.
"Dust can be reduced either by containing it, or by reducing the number of particles," Mr McLaren says. "This can be
achieved by granulation, which is the building-up of clusters from powder or powder/binder mixtures to increase particle
size."
Mr Werner and Dr Jones have examined two methods of granulation - compaction and agitation - and conclude that most of
Bomac's powdered products can be granulated. The first granulated product from Bomac is expected to be available early
in the new year.
-ends-
* Wayne Leech, Chief Executive, Bomac Laboratories Ltd, Manukau City. Ph: (09) 262-3169. Fax: (09) 262-3008. Email:
bomac@bomac.co.nz * Nigel Metge, Technology New Zealand at the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (Auckland
Office), (09) 912-6730, or 021 454-095. Website: www.technz.co.nz
Prepared on behalf of the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology by ID Communications. Contact: Ian Carson (04)
477-2525, ian@idcomm.co.nz