Design of tobacco pressing device in impregnator for tobacco expansion based on ANSYS finite element analysis

In order to even the exposure of tobacco to CO₂ inside the impregnator in dry ice expanded tobacco (DIET) system, a cone-shaped tobacco pressing device was designed. Driven by the top lid of the impregnator, the device pressed on the cut tobacco firmly to prevent it from floating on the liquid CO₂ while the lid was closed. The load acted on the pressing device was analyzed by ANSYS finite element analysis software to verify the rationality of the design. The pressing device was tested on the DIET system in Ningbo Cigarette Factory, the results showed that the filling value and expansion rate of upper layer cut tobacco increased by 3.786 cm³/g and 125.5% respectively. This technology provides technical supports for promoting cigarette quality and improving cut tobacco expanding technology.