Experimental analysis of agricultural solar dryer

Abstract

The drying process is simply the moisture extraction process of a product. It can be achieved with different approaches. In these processes, thermal drying is most widely used for drying agricultural products. This drying systems are normally divided into low and high temperature dryers according to their working temperature levels. In low temperature drying systems, natural-circulation greenhouse model dryers seem the most desirable method for use in remote regions. There are operationally and competitive economically to natural open sun drying. Here solar collector of dimensions (1.25m×1m×0.2m) with area of 1.25m2 has been painted black to absorb solar radiation and the solar drying cabinet that is divided into 3 number divisions separated by four removable shelves. Each shelf is 0.3m wide and 0.5m in length and is composed of a wooden boundary framed nylon wire mesh. For loading and unloading purposes, both sides of the drying chamber walls are sealed with wood and a shutter on the back. During this research, grapes were dried. In the four days after drying, the grapes’ moisture content was decreased from 81.7% to 36.7%. The drying air flows naturally through the commodity. The operating modes are discussed in this research. The results were discussed for designed solar agricultural dryer. Also it involves with the design and fabrication of agriculture solar dryer that can be manufactured in rural areas in an economic way.

Design, Construction, and Investigation of the Drying Equipment Using Solar Power for Bangladeshi Fruits and Vegetables

“…Flat plate collectors are frequently utilized for applications needing less than 80°C [21], [22]. Compared to concentrating type collectors, flat plate collectors are mechanically simpler and require less care [23][24][25]. The main structure of the drying chamber is constructed of low-cost ply board that is 0.019 m thick and this enclosure is typically a box of 1.00 m × 0.60 m × 0.60 m. It was insulated and covered at all sides with 0.025-m-thick polyurethane foam to minimize heat losses.…”