Feed block production method using vacuum pressure

Abstract

An automated system (100) for producing animal feed blocks is disclosed. A sealable vessel (110) supported by a load cell (114,116) contains a liquid ingredient. Steps of agitating with an agitator (142), applying a continuous high vacuum, and heating with a steam jacket (128) having multiple heat zones occur upon the liquid ingredient. A controller (164) 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 (120) is mixed at a regulated amount with the concentrated liquid ingredient during agitation and application of an intermittent high vacuum. A product outlet valve (138) is positioned at an outlet (136) within a conical-shaped bottom section (134) of the sealable vessel. Compressed air from a pneumatic pump (170) facilitates dispensing a quantified amount of an animal feed composition from the outlet into final packaging (140).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.