In the organic fertilizer production process, cow manure fermentation is a core step determining product quality. Its fermentation time is not a fixed value but a dynamic process influenced by multiple factors. Scientifically controlling the fermentation cycle ensures thorough decomposition of the cow manure while improving production efficiency, which is crucial for the efficient operation of organic fertilizer production lines.
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The essence of cow manure fermentation is the process of microbial decomposition of organic matter. Its core objective is to kill pathogens and insect eggs, degrade harmful substances, and transform them into a loose and fertile organic substrate. On standardized organic fertilizer production lines, the conventional fermentation time is 15-30 days. Using a high-temperature rapid fermentation process can shorten this to 7-10 days, while traditional natural fermentation requires 3-6 months. This difference mainly stems from variations in fermentation technology and environmental conditions.
The primary factor affecting fermentation time is the fermentation process itself. Modern production lines mostly employ trough fermentation or windrow fermentation with turning and turning.Compost turning machines regulate temperature, humidity, and aeration, and combined with microbial inoculation, the temperature of the fermentation pile can quickly rise to 55-65℃, maintaining this temperature for 5-7 days to complete decomposition. Natural fermentation, lacking turning equipment, results in a slow and uneven temperature rise, significantly prolonging the decomposition process.
Secondly, material conditions such as the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and moisture content are crucial. The carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of cow manure is approximately 25-30:1, close to the ideal range for fermentation, but it needs to be adjusted with auxiliary materials such as straw and sawdust. An imbalance in the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio will lead to fermentation stagnation. Microbial activity is strongest when the moisture content is controlled at 55%-60%. Excessive moisture promotes anaerobic putrefaction, while insufficient moisture slows metabolism; both prolong fermentation time.
Management measures during the fermentation process are also indispensable. Regular turning and turning replenishes oxygen and promotes aerobic respiration of microorganisms. Generally, turning every 2-3 days accelerates the decomposition of organic matter. When the ambient temperature is below 15℃, microbial activity decreases, requiring insulation measures; otherwise, the fermentation cycle may be extended by more than 50%.
To determine if cow manure fermentation is complete, in addition to considering the fermentation time, sensory indicators should be observed: when the fermentation pile temperature drops to room temperature, the material turns dark brown, has no odor, and feels loose and elastic, it is ready for subsequent crushing and granulation. Insufficient fermentation not only affects the fertilizer efficiency but may also cause root burn in crops due to secondary fermentation.
In summary, cow manure fermentation in organic fertilizer production lines requires scientific control of the fermentation time based on technological level and material conditions. Standardized management is essential to achieve efficient decomposition, laying the foundation for high-quality organic fertilizer production.
