Results from Optimization Studies Performed on the Powered Roll Gin Stand – Report 2

The powered roll gin stand is a new saw-type ginning technology that has undergone numerous studies evaluating its use for ginning seed cotton. Past results have shown increased production and turnout without adversely affecting fiber properties. In some cases, improvements in fiber properties over a conventional gin stand where demonstrated. However, the question remained as to what speed the various components of the power roll gin stand should be operated to optimize performance. The four main factors of the power roll gin stand evaluated were: paddle roll speed, paddle roll loading rate, seed finger roll speed, and saw speed. This paper presents the results of an optimization study conducted on a Lummus 116 gin stand that was retrofitted with the power roll gin stand technology. The results are based on lint samples taken after one stage of lint cleaning, seed samples, and performance data. Of the fourteen response variables evaluated, three variables resulted in significant models: short fiber content, ginning rate, and visible mechanical damage. Several optimal solutions were obtained based on the input factors used in the evaluation. When including all response variables in the analysis, the optimal operational settings for the gin stand were: paddle roll speed = 208 rpm, paddle roll loading = 17 amps, seed finger speed = 21 rpm, and saw speed = 829 rpm.