Designing Crusher Module of Hammer Mill Using the Ulrich-Eppinger Method to Maximize the Fineness of Coconut Shell and Palm Shell Grinding Results

The chapter delves into the intricacies of hammer mill operations, highlighting the critical factors that influence the fineness of ground materials such as coconut and palm shells. It begins by outlining the current challenges in hammer mill productivity, including issues with blade design, screen hole sizes, and rotor speed. The chapter then introduces the Ulrich-Eppinger method as a structured approach to conceptual design, emphasizing the importance of identifying customer needs and establishing target specifications. Through a series of experimental observations and operator interviews, the study reveals the shortcomings of existing hammer mill designs, such as inadequate blade wear resistance and suboptimal rotor speeds. The chapter presents a detailed methodology for developing alternative concepts, including the creation of a morphological chart to compare different design variables. The experimental data underscores the significance of optimizing screen settings and rotor speeds to achieve the desired fineness and productivity. The chapter concludes with a comprehensive analysis of the design targets and their implementation, providing a roadmap for enhancing the efficiency of hammer mill operations in grinding processes.