Pelletting

Pelletting is a process that compresses loose, powdery, or granular materials into dense, uniform pellets. This transformation offers several advantages, including improved handling, storage, and transportation. Powders, which can be dusty and prone to segregation, become easier to manage when formed into pellets. The increased density also means that more material can be stored or transported in the same volume, leading to cost efficiencies.

The pelleting process typically involves forcing the material through a die with small holes. Pressure and sometimes heat are applied, causing the material to bind together and take the shape of the die's openings. The exact method and equipment used depend heavily on the specific material being pelleted. Common applications include animal feed, where pellets are easier for livestock to consume and digest, and biomass fuel, where wood pellets offer a consistent and efficient energy source. Other industries utilize pelleting for fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and even in some food processing applications. The resulting pellets are generally characterized by their consistent size, shape, and hardness, which are crucial for their intended use.