How to Grind Feed With a Grinder Mixer

Portable grinder mixers have eliminated the need for farmers to process feed mixes at a stationary mill and transport them back to the farm for use. By using a portable unit powered by a tractor power take-off, or PTO, farmers can store bulk grains on site and process feed in batches as needed. The grinder mixer performs two functions (as the name implies), first mixing different ingredients to achieve a uniform distribution, then reducing particle size to the desired diameter by grinding it in a hammer mill. With proper use, grinder mixers can significantly increase farm efficiency.

Things You'll Need

  • Tractor with PTO
  • Scale
  • Auger
  • Bulk storage bin or 50-lb. bags
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Instructions

    • 1

      Connect the tractor's PTO to the drive shaft of the grinder mixer. Do not engage the PTO.

    • 2

      Clean out the grinder mixer by opening the small hatch at the bottom of the machine. Place a tarp beneath the hatch and run the mixer by engaging the tractor's PTO for at least 60 seconds.

    • 3

      Weigh the various ingredients to be included in the finished feed. Weight is a far more accurate method of measuring ingredients than volume.

    • 4

      Add half the grain into the unit's charging chute or main hopper using a screw auger. Add any ingredients that are used in small amounts, such as supplements or medications, to the supplement hopper, then add the rest of the grain.

    • 5

      Grind the mixture to the desired particle size by engaging the flywheel on the grinder mixer according to the manufacturer's directions, which will vary by model. Particle size can be changed by changing the screens in the hammer mill.

    • 6

      Store completed feed from the discharge tube in 50-lb. bags or move it to a bulk storage bin using a screw auger.