An Integrated Module Feeder Monitoring System to Mitigate Plastic Contamination

Plastic contamination in lint bales has been estimated to cost the US cotton industry approximately $750 million annually. Thus, it is important that efforts be taken to reduce contamination and/or prevent contaminants from entering seed cotton before ginning. This presentation discusses the design and operation of two systems installed on the module feeding systems at two commercial gins to monitor the unloading and unwrapping processes and periodically monitor the dispersing cylinders to determine if plastic has accumulated on the cylinders. The information collected can be used to train gin employees of module handling situations to be aware of that increase the risk of contamination.