The Combined Effect of Normal Stress and Mechanical Vibration on Wheat Packing Density

In this scientific investigation, the impact of mechanical vibrations, precisely the vibration time (t), vibration amplitude (A), and external normal stress (σ), on the packing density (ρ) of wheat is thoroughly examined and analyzed. The findings reveal that both normal stress and vibration amplitude substantially affect wheat packing density, with increased normal stress and vibration amplitude resulting in higher packing density. Moreover, the utilization of normal stress accelerates the attainment of wheat's final stable bulk density and yields a higher value than freeloaded testing. The validity of the proposed approach, which employs normal stress and vibration amplitude as predictors for wheat packing density, was confirmed using an exponential model. This method holds considerable promise for optimizing wheat handling and storage operations, facilitating more accurate estimation of transportation expenses and storage needs, and minimizing wastage by ensuring optimal packing density during storage and transport. Moreover, the implications of this study have broader applicability to other granular materials, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and mining commodities, where packing density serves as a vital determinant of transport and storage efficiency, thereby underscoring the potential significance of the findings beyond the context of wheat. In summary, this study sheds light on the factors that influence wheat packing density, proposing a novel method for predicting packing density and providing insights into the potential applications of this method in agriculture and related industries.