Impurities in alfalfa seed and their impact on processsing technology

Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine relevant parameters and optimal alfalfa seed processing technology by a comparative analysis of two systems of machinery for processing natural alfalfa seed of different purity (59.0% and 71.0%) and with different content of impurities. The relevant parameters monitored during the test were: pure seed (%), weed seeds and seeds of other crops (%), inert matter (%), amount of processed seed (kg), seed processing time (min), consumption of steel powder (kg), water (l), glycerin (ml), and processing yield (%). Alfalfa is the most important forage legume due to its forage quality and growing regions in our country and worldwide. The losses of alfalfa seed in processing are directly dependent on the type and quantity of weeds and other impurities present in the natural seed. In particular, a large amount of impurities and weeds in natural alfalfa seed may be due to the poor condition of crops, as well as improper adjustment of combine harvesters during the harvest. The processing of alfalfa seed is performed by multiple pieces of equipment and devices, including a number of different procedures depending on the initial seed purity. The type of processing machinery and the selection of appropriate technological measures depend on the initial seed purity. The proper setting of processing machinery is also very important in order to obtain optimal results and reduce seed losses during processing.