PROPOSAL FOR NEW MATERIAL FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF RAKES IN BAGASSE CONVEYORS IN THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

Abstract

The object of study of this work is based on the proposal of a new material to replace the rakes of the bagasse conveyors of the Sugar Industry; as a solution to the current practice of replacing conventional wooden rakes by the variant of laminated tubes and channel beam. The use of these last ones increases the weight in the conveyors and causes a greater consumption of energy; in addition, an overload could bring with it bigger breakages and the increase of the costs in the interruptions. The value of the resistance to the static flexion of conventional materials (like Pinus Caribaea and Lysiloma Bahamensis), with values of maximum resistance to the static flexion (FH): FH= 113,19MPa y FH = 46,33MPa respectively, was obtained experimentally. For the substitution of the rakes, a polymeric matrix composite material of Bamboo fiber with knot, with bark and without treatment (BCCCNST) and a matrix of polyester resin is proposed. The breaking limit for BCCCNST is 116 MPa and for the polyester resin it can range from 80 to 150 MPa, so that both have properties within the ranges required for this application. When comparing the power required for different scenarios, it was detected that in all cases the installed power is above the necessary, so it would be advisable to replace the motor with one of smaller capacity.