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Modeling and optimization of a natural convection-based agricultural dryer

Kumar, Rajesh and Ravikrishna, RV (2012) Modeling and optimization of a natural convection-based agricultural dryer. In: Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research, 71 (5). pp. 316-323.

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Abstract

This study presents development of a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model to predict unsteady, two-dimensional temperature, moisture and velocity distributions inside a novel, biomass-fired, natural convection-type agricultural dryer. Results show that in initial stages of drying, when material surface is wet and moisture is easily available, moisture removal rate from surface depends upon the condition of drying air. Subsequently, material surface becomes dry and moisture removal rate is driven by diffusion of moisture from inside to the material surface. An optimum 9-tray configuration is found to be more efficient than for the same mass of material and volume of dryer. A new configuration of dryer, mainly to explore its potential to increasing uniformity in drying across all trays, is also analyzed. This configuration involves diverting a portion of hot air before it enters over the first tray and is supplied directly at an intermediate location in the dryer. Uniformity in drying across trays has increased for the kind of material simulated.

Item Type: Journal Article
Publication: Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research
Publisher: NISCAIR-CSIR, India
Additional Information: CC Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 India
Keywords: Agricultural Dryer;Computational fluid dynamic (CFD); Natural Convection
Department/Centre: Division of Mechanical Sciences > Mechanical Engineering
Date Deposited: 13 Jun 2012 11:02
Last Modified: 13 Jun 2012 11:02
URI: http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/44665

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