Feed block production method using vacuum pressure

Abstract

An automated system () for producing animal feed blocks is disclosed. A sealable vessel () supported by a load cell () contains a liquid ingredient. Steps of agitating with an agitator (), applying a continuous high vacuum, and heating with a steam jacket () having multiple heat zones occur upon the liquid ingredient. A controller () monitors the weight change of the liquid ingredient being concentrated. A target weight signal generates once the concentrated liquid ingredient corresponds to a target weight value. Dry premix () is mixed at a regulated amount with the concentrated liquid ingredient during agitation and application of an intermittent high vacuum. A product outlet valve () is positioned at an outlet () within a conical-shaped bottom section () of the sealable vessel. Compressed air from a pneumatic pump () facilitates dispensing a quantified amount of an animal feed composition from the outlet into final packaging ().