2000418 - Module 9: Hands-On Workshop at Canadian Feed Research Centre
Course Description
This hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to see the theory learned throughout the Canadian Feed Industry Education Program come to life on the production floor, while connecting with industry experts and peers.
Gain practical experience with feed manufacturing processes through an immersive, hands-on workshop at the Canadian Feed Research Centre (CFRC)*. Take part in learning activities involving key manufacturing steps including grinding, proportioning, mixing, conditioning, pelleting, drying and cooling. Explore how processing variables affect feed quality, efficiency, safety and cost. This workshop bridges theory and practice, providing valuable insights into laboratory, pilot, and full-scale production operations.
*The CFRC is part of the University of Saskatchewan and is located in North Battleford, Saskatchewan.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
- Describe the key stages of feed manufacturing in a Canadian feed mill
- Outline the factors that affect grinding efficiency
- Explain methods used to assess particle size
- Use the results of homogeneity testing to assess mixer efficiency
- Summarize the impact of conditioning and pelleting variables, such as temperature and moisture, on feed quality and processing efficiency
- Identify best practices for drying and cooling to obtain optimal pellet quality
- Apply laboratory and pilot-scale observations to full-scale production processes
Workshop Activities
Over the 1.5 day workshop, you will participate in four different activities as outlined below.
- Overview of a Feed Mill:
- Tour the Canadian Feed Research Centre and identify the various equipment
- Observe and interpret the use of performance monitoring software and in-line analysis using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)
- Grinding:
- Explore factors affecting grinding efficiency (e.g. ingredient characteristics, equipment speed, and screen size)
- Conduct a comparison of fine vs coarse grinding with a hammermill
- Observe a roller mill in action
- Assess particle size using industry methods
- Proportioning and Mixing:
- Discover a range of feed ingredients and their characteristics
- Proportion ingredients according to a formula
- Evaluate mixer efficiency through homogeneity testing and measuring the coefficient of variation (CV) for mix quality
- Conditioning, Pelleting and Cooling:
- Explore the effects of pelleting feed with and without conditioning
- Analyse the impact of temperature/moisture on pellet quality, throughput, and energy use
- Use drying and cooling processes to achieve optimal moisture content
- Assess the physical properties of feed pellets, including durability and hardness
- Observe the crumbling process
Additional Requirements
Prerequisites(s)
Minimally, learners must have completed Module 7: Principles of Feed Manufacturing before attending Module 9: Hands-On Workshop at CFRC.
It is also highly recommended you complete Module 1: Introduction to the Canadian Feed Industry, Module 2: Overview of the Feed Manufacturing Process, Module 3: Feed Safety and Module 8: Finished Products prior to Module 9.
Learner are encouraged to complete Module 4: Feed Legislation, Module 5: Feed Ingredients, and Module 6: Fundamentals of Feed Formulation although the content of these modules is not required to understand the material covered in Module 9.
- This module is intended for adult learners who are at least 18 years of age.
- This module will take place in person at the Canadian Feed Research Centre in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering their own travel, accommodations and meals, although lunch will be provided on the first day of the workshop. Hotel suggestions will be provided.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, hi visibility vests and safety glasses will be supplied on-site, although you are welcome to bring your own.
- Participants must wear laundered clothing (that you don’t mind getting dirty) and bring closed toe shoes (steel toe preferred) for use during the workshop.
- Participants must not have been in contact with any livestock within 48 hours prior to attending the workshop. If this is unavoidable, they must disclose this information in advance.
- Participants will be asked to sign a disclaimer form, which will be provided ahead of time to all registered participants.
- Active participation and adherence to all on-site safety instructions are required.
Assessment
A minimum grade of 80% on the quiz is required to pass the module.
| Assessment Item | Weight |
| Quiz (1) | 100% |
| Total | 100% |
Upon successful completion of the module, you will receive a “Pass” on your student record.
Note:
Applies Towards the Following Certificate
Canadian Feed Industry Education Program
(You must successfully complete Modules 1 through 8, and 10 to earn the program certificate.)
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*Course details are subject to change.