Features of energy balance under grain gravitation outflow from side-opening grain-tank

The minimum cut height at which a stable grain (wheat) outflow starts is calculated. The energy balance of the system is analyzed. The specific work done by the viscous and skin-friction forces under the grain outflow from the hopper is eventually defined. The dependence of this work on both the transported layer height and the outlet opening height is specified. The grain outflow velocity at various bottom tilt angles and the outlet height are determined experimentally. Besides, the specific work done by the friction forces under grain moving along the end sidewalls and the hopper bottom is calculated. The energy needed to destroy roofs at various bottom tilt angles is found. The obtained results could be used in bulk side-feeding mechanisms.