Performance of Solar Collector Using Recycled Aluminum Cans for Drying

Abstract

This study highlights the crucial role of flat plate collectors in solar dryer applications for drying agricultural produce. The aim is to develop a solar collector from discarded aluminium beverage cans, following the IS 1933, 2003 standard. The performance is evaluated at three different mass flow rates to dry 12 kg of green chillies. The cylindrical curved surfaces of the tubes are coated with a mixture of activated charcoal and blackboard paint to meet insulation standards. The total efficiency of the collector is determined by measuring the incoming and outgoing air temperatures at various mass flow rates. Additionally, the weight and moisture content removed from the 12 kg green chillies is monitored every 30 minutes throughout the day. The results show that efficiency decreases with increasing mass flow rates, with the solar collector achieving its highest efficiency of 67.89% at a mass flow rate of 0.005 kg/s, effectively removing 88% of the moisture content from the green chillies. This underscores the importance of optimising mass flow rates to maximize the efficiency of solar dryers using recycled materials. The use of activated charcoal and blackboard paint coatings on the aluminium cans enhances heat absorption and retention, contributing to the overall efficiency of the solar dryer. Future research could explore the application of this technology to other types of agricultural produce and further refine the coating materials to improve thermal performance.