Reproducible Pellet Durability Index Measurement for Bulk Solids
The Kempink testing methodology provides reproducible Pellet Durability Index (PDI) measurement for animal feed and biomass pellets. Automatic processes eliminate operator bias and sample variability.
Eliminating variability in durability testing
Pellet Durability Index (PDI) measures the mechanical durability of pellets during transport and handling. Traditional PDI measurement often suffers from variability caused by differing test geometries, operator influence during sample loading and timing, and the presence of production fines in testing samples.
Standardised automated test cycle
The Kempink test methodology addresses these discrepancies by automating the core testing sequence. The cycle starts automatically upon sample loading, removing timing variations. A programmable logic controller (PLC) combined with a frequency controller maintains constant drum speed, while production fines are automatically sieved before testing begins to ensure only intact pellets are tested.
Alignment with sector certification standards
Results generated by the Kempink method correlate directly with major quality frameworks. In animal feed production, measurements align with ASAE/ASABE S269.5 for GMP+ B1 and GAFTA documentation. For wood pellets and biomass, results correlate with ISO 17831-1:2025, supporting ENplus A1 and A2 certification requirements.
Laboratory and inline testing implementations
First introduced as a laboratory tester in 2016 by WEMO-techniek, the methodology has been expanded into automated inline systems. These implementations enable real-time PDI measurement, predictive durability analytics, and automated retention sampling on active pressing lines.
