Characterisation of Coconut Coir Under Compaction: Determination of Pellet Density, Specific Energy and Compression Force

Abstract

Coconut coir dust has a potential utilization as bio-fuel pellet. The objective of this contribution is to understand the mechanical characterisation of coconut coir under compaction. Four moulds with hole diameter of 6, 12, 20 and 25 mm are adopted in producing coconut coir pellet. Data of unit pellet density, compression force and specific energy are analyzed with specific hole diameter, mould thickness, and ratio of compacted pellet height. It is observed that unit pellet densities are larger than 1,0 g/cm3 for hole diameter range from 6 to 12 mm except the ratio of compacted pellet height 2,5 of hole diameter 6 mm The specific energy required is 11,2 - 13,6 J/g while unit pellet density is compacted to approximate 0,7 g/cm3 the compression force goes increasingly as the plunger is moving ahead, and to the maximal value at the end of stroke in close-end mode, while in open-end mode, the peak compression force presents gradual decreasing, increasing and stable trend as the compression stroke continues over time. The Pearson correlation analysis indicated that the maximum compression force in close-end mode has little influence on the stable compression force in open-end.

Keywords

• coconut coir dust
• compression force
• pellet density
• specific energy