ANALYSIS OF FEED MIXER EFFICIENCIES OF COMMERCIAL FEED MANUFACTURERS IN THE PHILIPPINES FROM 2012 TO 2016

Abstract

The study was done to determine the efficiency of feed mixers with different batch sizes, mixing time and diet types using data gathered from commercial feed manufacturers in the Philippines. Mixing efficiency was evaluated by calculating the coefficient of variation (CV) using color-coded tracer homogeneity test and was described as excellent (CV≤10%), good (CV=10-15%), fair (CV=15-20%) and poor (CV≥20%). Results from 2012 to 2016 were grouped according to mixer type, batch size, mixing time and feed type, and were subjected to descriptive statistics. Of the 985 feed samples mixed using the horizontal-type, only 24% yielded excellent mixing efficiency while only 14% for vertical-type mixer (n=85). The highest percentage of excellent mixing efficiencies of different mixer capacity, mixing time using horizontal mixer, mixing time using vertical mixer, and feed types were at 500-kg (31.54%), <4 minutes (30.58%), 15 minutes (26.09%), and sow feeds (34.12%), respectively. These factors can significantly alter the homogeneity of the mixed rations. Recognition of these factors and regularly checking the quality of mix can help maintain the acceptable CV to deliver nutritionally uniform feeds to the animals.