Optimization of Molding Process Parameters of Caragana korshinskii Kom. Based on Box-Behnken Design

In this study, using the Box-Behnken design (BBD) experimental method, a plunger-type three-roller pelletizer was employed to explore the optimal pelletizing parameters for biomass fuel pellets with Caragana korshinskii Kom. strip as the raw material. The moisture content of the raw material, the length-to-diameter ratio of the forming die, and the rotational speed of the ring mold were identified as the experimental factors. The relaxation density of the biomass fuel (BMF) pellets and the productivity of the pelletizer were set as the experimental indicators. The study aimed to uncover the influence patterns of these factors on the pelletizing outcomes and establish regression equations between various factors and indicators. The results revealed that when Caragana korshinskii Kom. strip was used as the raw material in this pelletizer, the optimal pelletizing parameters were as follows: a moisture content of 15.5%, a forming die length-to-diameter ratio of 5.3, and a ring mold rotational speed of 30 rpm. Under these conditions, the relaxation density, mechanical durability, and productivity reached 1.139 g/cm3, 96.21%, and 6.278 t/h, respectively. The energy consumption per ton of pellets did not exceed 41.3 kWh. The significance of this study is its potential to expand the utilization range of Caragana korshinskii Kom., reduce environmental pollution at the same time, and make a certain contribution to carbon peak and carbon neutrality. © 2024 by the authors.