The agricultural industry has long treasured chicken manure as a rich source of nutrients for crops. Composting chicken manure not only reduces odors and the presence of pathogens but also stabilizes its nutrients, making it an excellent base for organic fertilizers. To apply composted chicken manure efficiently to fields, it is often processed into pellets using granulation equipment. Below, we discuss the process and types of granulators suitable for turning composted chicken manure into beneficial pellets.
Introduction to Granulation
The Benefits of Pelletizing Composted Manure
Granulation of composted chicken manure improves nutrient availability, reduces nutrient leaching, facilitates storage and transportation, and provides ease of application. The process of converting the compost into pellets involves the compaction of the material into a dense, uniform shape.
Preparing Composted Chicken Manure
Achieving the Proper Consistency
Before pelletizing, the composted chicken manure must have the correct moisture content, typically around 15-20%. The compost should be screened to remove large particles and ensure a uniform texture, critical to producing high-quality pellets.
Enriching the Compost
Depending on the desired nutrient profile of the final product, additional elements or compounds such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium may be added to the compost before granulation.
Types of Granulators for Chicken Manure
Flat Die Pellet Mill
Flat die pellet mills work by pressing the composted material through a die using roller presses. The material enters the pellet mill and is compacted against a flat die, creating pellets that exit through the die’s holes. This method is suitable for low to medium production volumes and is favored for its simplicity and ease of use.

Pan Granulator
Pan granulators or disc pelletizers shape compost into pellets using a rotating pan. With the addition of water or binder, the rotating motion causes the compost particles to aggregate and form into small, rounded pellets. Pan granulators are cost-effective and can be adjusted to create pellets of various sizes.

Rotary Drum Granulator
Rotary drum granulators are large cylinders that rotate to blend composted chicken manure with a binder, forming pellets as the material tumbles inside the drum. This equipment is suitable for large-scale production and creates uniformly sized pellets with high efficiency.

The Granulation Process
Mixing and Conditioning
Prepared composted chicken manure is mixed with any additional nutrients and binders to help in pellet formation. The mixture should be conditioned to reach the correct temperature and moisture content before entering the granulator.
Granulating the Material
Once properly mixed and conditioned, the material is fed into the granulator, where it is compacted and extruded into pellets using one of the mentioned methods.
Cooling and Drying
The pellets exit the granulator at a high temperature and must be cooled and dried to enhance their stability, prevent mold growth, and make them easier to store.
Post-Granulation Processing
Screening and Sorting
After cooling, the pellets are screened to separate fines and oversized particles. The pellets are then sorted to ensure uniformity in size, which is essential for proper application and nutrient distribution.
Coating for Added Protection
Optionally, pellets can be coated with a layer of liquid or powder to reduce dust, minimize nutrient loss, and improve their physical properties.
Storage and Application
Proper Storage Practices
Pelleted composted chicken manure should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality. Proper storage reduces the risk of pellet breakage and nutrient degradation.
Application Techniques
Pellets can be applied directly to the soil using conventional spreading equipment, ensuring an even distribution of nutrients. They are particularly effective when used in precision farming practices.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Compliance with Regulations
Manufacturers must comply with environmental regulations when producing manure pellets, ensuring that the process does not contribute to pollution or other environmental hazards.
Safe Handling Measures
Despite the composting process reducing pathogens, it is still important to handle chicken manure pellets safely, using personal protective equipment to avoid potential health risks.
Conclusion
Producing composted chicken manure pellets is a valuable way to enhance the practicality and effectiveness of this organic fertilizer. Whether using a flat die, ring die, pan granulator, or rotary drum, each granulator has its own advantages and is suitable for different scales of production. Proper preparation, granulation, and post-processing ensure high-quality pellets that are easy to store, transport, and apply, providing a slow-release form of nutrients to crops and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.