CFD–DEM-based optimization of an air-assisted fertilizer conveying system using surplus blower airflow from a precision seeder
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: To address energy waste from surplus airflow discharge in air-suction seeders, a pneumatic fertilizer delivery system was developed using residual fan pressure as auxiliary power. Coupled computational fluid dynamics and discrete element simulations with bench tests investigated effects of pipe diameter, airflow velocity, and fertilizer delivery rate on performance, using velocity non-uniformity coefficient and discharge uniformity coefficient of variation as indices. Single-factor and orthogonal experiments determined optimal parameters. Results showed airflow velocity had the greatest influence, followed by pipe diameter and delivery rate. Interactions between pipe diameter and airflow velocity, and between airflow velocity and delivery rate, significantly affected airflow uniformity and discharge consistency. The optimal combination was pipe diameter 25 mm, airflow velocity 20 m·s − 1 , and delivery rate 13.50 g·s − 1 , yielding velocity non-uniformity coefficient 6.37% and discharge uniformity coefficient of variation 1.85%. Bench validation showed average relative errors below 9%, confirming model reliability. This study provides theoretical and technical support for developing pneumatic fertilizer delivery systems for air-suction seeders and establishing energy reuse mechanisms in agricultural machinery.
Source: Research Square
Institutions: Wuwei Vocational and Technical University, Shihezi University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214224817