Influence of moisture content on frictional characteristics of pulses and oilseeds

Abstract

The frictional characteristics of agricultural grains are essential for designing handling, conveying, and storage equipment. This study investigates the effect of moisture content on the frictional behaviour of selected pulses and oilseeds-soybean (Glycine max), lentil (Lens culinaris), mustard (Brassica juncea), and maize (Zea mays). Samples were tested at five moisture contents (10%, 13%, 16%, 19%, and 22% wet basis). The angles of repose, internal friction, and external friction (on galvanized iron and plywood surfaces) were measured using standard apparatus. Results indicated that all frictional parameters increased linearly with moisture content. Among the samples, soybean exhibited the highest angle of repose (29.2-34.6°), whereas maize recorded the lowest (22.8-27.9°). The external friction was higher on plywood than on galvanized iron. These findings provide essential engineering parameters for optimizing seed processing, transportation, and storage system design.