Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 2 Documents
Search

Enhancing Homogeneity and Particle Size Reduction in Coffee–Creamer Mixtures Using Fluidized Bed Mixer Ruhyat, Nanang; Multahada, Erna; Sirait, Alfa Firdaus
International Journal of Innovation in Mechanical Engineering and Advanced Materials Vol 7, No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Mercu Buana

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.22441/ijimeam.v7i1.31132

Abstract

This study investigates the application of a fluidized bed mixer to improve the homogeneity, particle size distribution, and moisture reduction of coffee and creamer powder mixtures. The research focuses on three types of coffee particles—Type A (145 μm), Type B (100 μm), and Type C (50 μm)—which were mixed with creamer in a weight ratio of 1:0.7. The mixing process was conducted using a prototype fluidized bed mixer with a capacity of 1,000 grams and a blower speed range of 2,800–3,000 rpm. After 10 minutes of mixing, significant reductions in particle size were observed: Type A decreased by 20–30%, Type B by 10–15%, and Type C by 5–10%, with creamer particles also experiencing a 15% reduction. Moisture content dropped from 10.63% to 8.5%, demonstrating the system’s dual function of mixing and drying. Microscopic analysis revealed a uniform particle distribution with minimal agglomeration or segregation, confirming the effectiveness of the fluidized bed mixer in achieving a homogeneous blend. These findings underscore the potential of fluidized bed technology in improving the quality, stability, and handling properties of powder-based products. The results have important implications for instant beverage production, food formulation, and broader powder processing industries, where consistent product performance is essential.
Performance Analysis of R600a as a Replacement for R134a in a Household Refrigeration System Sudarma, Andi Firdaus; Carles, Henry; Azhar, Azmi; Akmal, Muhammad; Sirait, Alfa Firdaus
Jurnal Teknik Mesin (Journal Of Mechanical Engineering) Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Mercu Buana

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.22441/jtm.v14i2.32326

Abstract

This study evaluates the performance of a 50-liter mini refrigerator using R600a as an alternative to the factory-default refrigerant, R134a. The experimental setup included pressure gauges and digital thermometers to measure key parameters such as temperature and pressure at critical points in the refrigeration cycle. Tests were conducted under two scenarios: no-load and a 4 kg chicken meat load. Initially, the system operated with R134a at 16 bar and 20 g charge before being evacuated and recharged with R600a at the same pressure. Data was collected over a 10-minute period under stable conditions and analyzed using a P-h (Pressure-Enthalpy) diagram to determine enthalpy, refrigeration effect, compressor work, and coefficient of performance (COP). The effect of using R600a, efficiency increased 4% without load and 7% with load operation compared to R134a system. While COP actual has increased 5% and 10% respectively. The results indicate that R600a offers comparable performance to R134a while presenting potential advantages in terms of energy efficiency and environmental impact. These findings contribute to the ongoing evaluation of R600a as a sustainable replacement for R134a in household refrigeration applications.