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5 Key Causes of Pellet Mill Jamming/Clogging
TIME:2025-12-19 10:50:43 WRITER：JINAN GLOBAL MACHINE MANUFACTURER
Pellet mill jamming isn’t a single-issue problem—it stems from small mistakes in raw material processing, machine parameters, daily maintenance, etc. Identifying these causes is critical to resolving the issue.
Excessive raw material moisture (>15%)
For a pellet mill, the optimal moisture content for pelleting is 12%-15%. Excess moisture forms wet clumps during pressing, which stick to die holes, accumulate, and block the discharge—leading to frequent jamming.
For a pellet mill, the optimal moisture content for pelleting is 12%-15%. Excess moisture forms wet clumps during pressing, which stick to die holes, accumulate, and block the discharge—leading to frequent jamming.
Unremoved raw material impurities
If not properly processed, raw materials (e.g., wood chips, straw) may contain hard impurities (iron nails, gravel, bamboo pieces) or uncrushed fiber clumps. These impurities easily jam the machine’s rollers or clog the die holes.
If not properly processed, raw materials (e.g., wood chips, straw) may contain hard impurities (iron nails, gravel, bamboo pieces) or uncrushed fiber clumps. These impurities easily jam the machine’s rollers or clog the die holes.
Mismatched die compression ratio
Different raw materials (pine, eucalyptus, peanut shells, rice husks, bamboo chips, etc.) have distinct physical properties, so the pellet mill requires a matching die compression ratio. An improper ratio prevents smooth pelleting or traps materials in die holes, causing jamming.
Different raw materials (pine, eucalyptus, peanut shells, rice husks, bamboo chips, etc.) have distinct physical properties, so the pellet mill requires a matching die compression ratio. An improper ratio prevents smooth pelleting or traps materials in die holes, causing jamming.
Incorrect gap between rollers and die
The gap between the machine’s rollers and die directly affects pelleting:
The gap between the machine’s rollers and die directly affects pelleting:
Too small: Over-compression and heat buildup cause clumping.
Too large: Uneven pressure results in poor pellet formation.
Both can block the pellet mill’s hopper.
Lack of regular cleaning and maintenance
Residual materials in die holes, discharge outlets, or feed hoppers harden over time, gradually blocking the channels. This turns occasional jamming into a regular problem and accelerates machine wear.
