New Approach for Fertiliser Size Assessment Using Contactless Scanning

Abstract

The growing population and lack of change in resources of cultivated land have led to the search for more efficient farming solutions. The recovery of soil is facilitated by using chemicals designed for the enrichment of cultivated soil. Fertilisers are made of a combination of various substances that determine not only the chemical but also the shape characteristics of the fertiliser pellets. The effect of the quality of fertilisation on yield size is related to even distribution. Shape and size are closely related to the quality of the fertilisation process. The intense control of the production process would not be possible without automatised and quick measurements within the production line. Constant control is necessary to ensure that the products meet quality standards. The contactless assessment of pellet sizes allows a quick reaction to changes in production quality and reduces the costs arising from the reprocessing of defective pellets. The results of the assessment of pellet volume using their two-dimensional image are presented in this publication. Pellets must be analysed according to their most characteristic position, which can provide valuable information about their properties. The aim is to determine the placement positions of the equipment based on calculations and to compare the results with those of gold-standard equipment. Correctly calibrated equipment ensures that the measurement results match the results of the control equipment of fertiliser producers. Reliable non-contact measurements can reduce the reaction time to production changes.