A fermentation and storage TMR model for dairy cattle

Total Mixed Ration (TMR), a system used in combining materials into feed for animals in the right proportion is a complex process especially when by-products are utilized. This involves several steps and unit machines. The current study focused on modeling a fermentation and storage system utilizing by-products for TMR feed production using the Arena V15 simulation program. Process time, operation rate, and bottleneck phenomenon were analyzed. The optimal capacities of unit machines were estimated using Opt-quest, an extension of the simulation program. Results showed the optimal operation rate of the mixer was 99% at 8.5 ton/h capacity and that of the steam sterilizer was 93% at 17.6 ton/h capacity. Moisture regulator was 89% at 7.0 ton/h capacity, while those of the vehicle loader and packaging device were 83.3 and 100% at 12.8 and 2.67 ton/h respectively. A field trial to verify the simulated results was conducted at Hwaseong Dairy Corporation. It shows mean square error and standard deviation between the simulated results and the field trial were within 5% range indicating a significant relationship. This work developed a livestock feed fermentation and storage model for cattle at an optimal performance.