SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 9
Download to read offline
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1684
DESIGN, FABRICATION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AN
INDIRECT SOLAR DRYER FOR DRYING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
Kaustav Bharadwaz1, Debashish Barman2 , Debottam Bhowmik3, Zunaid Ahmed4
1 2 3 Students, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, RSET, Guwahati, Assam, India
4 Assistant Professor and Head, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, RSET, Guwahati, Assam, India
---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract- In a developing country like India, having the
second largest population and agriculture as the source of
income to nearly 60 % of the total population, post - harvest
and storage loss of agricultural commodities is a major
quandary, which needs to be addressed in due diligence.
Many food preservation techniques like cold storage, drying,
etc. have been evolved out over the years to tackle the above
losses. The major constraint is that almost all the
technologies are utilizing fossil fuel resources, which are
depleting very fast and wise use of these precious resources
are preferred for long-term energy sustainability. Therefore,
sustainable methods for food preservation are the need of
the hour. Solar drying is one of the best choices in this
context. This paper presents the design, fabrication and
performance evaluation of an indirect forced convection
solar dryer consisting of a solar air collector, drying cabinet
and a centrifugal blower. The dryer has been designed
indigenously using locally available materials for
construction and it is cost effective. In the dryer, the heated
air from a separate solar collector is allowed to pass
through the products placed inside the drying chamber. The
solar energy which is get absorbed inside the collector is
allowed to pass through some well created baffles. The
baffles are placed inside the collector so that flow of hot air
inside the collector become non linear, thus, taking more
time to pass from the collector to the drying chamber and
the air get heated. A centrifugal blower has also been
employed in order to speed up the rate of drying process.
The dryer can be used effectively for drying agricultural
products and as a model green apple slices were used to
evaluate the performance.
Key words: Indirect solar dryer, forced convection, drying,
agricultural products, green apple
1. INTRODUCTION
Drying is one of the methods used to preserve food
products for longer periods. The heat from the sun
coupled with the wind has been used to dry food for
preservation for several years. Drying is the oldest
preservation technique of agricultural products and it is
an energy intensive process. High prices and shortages of
fossil fuels have increased the emphasis on using
alternative renewable energy resources. Drying of
agricultural products like fruits and vegetables using
renewable energy such as solar energy is environmental
friendly and has less environmental impact.
Solar thermal technology is a technology that is
rapidly gaining acceptance as an energy saving measure in
agriculture application. It is preferred to other alternative
sources of energy such as wind and shale, because it is
abundant, inexhaustible, and non-polluting. Different
types of solar dryers have been designed, developed and
tested in the different regions of the tropics and subtropics
[1, 2]. The two major categories of the dryers are natural
convection solar dryers and forced convection solar dryers
[3]. In the natural convection solar dryers the airflow is
established by buoyancy induced airflow while in forced
convection solar dryers the airflow is provided by using
fan operated either by electricity/solar module or fossil
fuel. Solar air dryers are simple devices to heat air by
utilizing solar energy and it is employed in many
applications requiring low to moderate temperature
below 80°C, such as crop drying and space heating. Drying
of agricultural products under direct sunlight also has
several disadvantages like poor quality and contamination
[3]. In comparison to natural sun drying, solar dryers
generate higher temperatures, lower relative humidity,
lower product moisture content and reduced spoilage
during the drying process. In addition, it takes up less
space, takes less time and relatively inexpensive compared
to artificial mechanical drying method. Thus, solar drying
is a better alternative solution to all the drawbacks of
natural drying and artificial mechanical drying.
Solar dryers are a very useful device for agricultural
crop drying, food processing industries for dehydration of
fruits and vegetables, fish and meat drying, dairy
industries for production of milk powder, seasoning of
wood and timber, textile industries for drying of textile
materials, etc. Thus, solar dryer is one of the many ways
of making use of solar energy efficiently in meeting man’s
demand for energy and food supply, total system cost is a
most important consideration in designing a solar dryer
for agricultural uses. No matter how well a solar system
operates, it will not gain widespread use unless it presents
an economically feasible alternative to other available
energy sources
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1685
The application of solar dryers in developing
countries can reduce post-harvest losses and significantly
contribute to the availability of food in these countries.
Estimated post-harvest losses are generally cited to be of
the order of 40% but they can, under very adverse
conditions, be nearly as high as 80%. A significant
percentage of these losses are related to improper and/or
untimely drying of foodstuffs such as cereal grains, pulses,
tubers, meat, fish, etc. [4, 5]. Use of indirect type natural
convection solar dryer for drying grapes, figs, onions,
apples, tomatoes and green peas has been reported [3].
Solar drying is a potential decentralized thermal
application of solar energy particularly in developing
countries [6]. However, so far, there has been very little
field penetration of solar drying technology. In the initial
phase of dissemination, identification of suitable areas for
using solar dryers would be extremely helpful towards
their market penetration. Thus, the solar dryer is one of
the many ways of making use of solar energy efficiently in
meeting man’s demand for energy and food supply. No
matter how well a solar system operates, it will not gain
widespread use unless it presents an economically feasible
alternative to other available energy sources.
2. DESIGN APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
In this project we have designed, fabricated and evaluated
the performance of an indirect type solar dryer also called
forced convection (active) type for drying agricultural
products. The working model of indirect type solar dryer
is based upon the concept of solar radiation absorption.
The solar energy (sun energy) is trapped inside by using
solar collector. The collector was made of wood and the
absorber plate was painted with black colour so that it
absorbs the maximum amount of sun radiation falling on
it. A special care was taken by aligning it in an acute angle
(30-40 degrees) so that the collector receives maximum
amount of radiation. The solar energy, which gets
absorbed inside the collector was allowed to pass through
four well created baffles. The baffles were placed inside
the collector so that flow of hot air inside the collector is
not linear and when it is not linear, it will take more time
to travel and thereby it will raise the temperature of the
air trapped inside. This high temperature air gets
exhausted from the collector through the passage
provided at the exit of the collector. The temperature at
the entry and exit of solar collector was measured using
digital thermometer. The hot air was then sucked by using
a centrifugal air blower so that this hot air gets forced
inside the drying chamber. The products (green apple
slices) were placed on the drying trays in the horizontal
manner. The hot air was forced from the solar collector
onto the drying chamber with the help of a centrifugal
blower and the heated air inside the drying chamber
moves out through the exhaust vent. The orthogonal view
of the indirect solar dryer is shown in Fig- 1.
Fig- 1: Orthogonal view of the Indirect Solar Dryer
(dimensions in cm)
2.1 Appliances used
The appliances used in solar dryer consist of solar
collector (air heater), cover plate, absorber plate,
drying cabinet and air blower ,which are mentioned
below along with the specifications:
Solar Collector: The inner box of the solar air
collector was constructed using 1 mm thick
galvanized plate and the surface facing sunlight was
painted with black paint .The solar collector was
insulated with wood of about 3cm thickness and
thermal conductivity of 0.04 Wm-1 K-1 on all sides.
The solar collector assembly consists of air flow
channel enclosed by transparent cover (fibre glass).
The fibre glass is a single layer of 4 mm thick
transparent glass sheet. It has a surface area of 0.82
by 1.20 cm, thermal conductivity 0.024 Wm-1 K-1
and of transmittance above 0.85.
Cover plate: This is a transparent sheet used to
cover the absorber, thereby preventing dust and rain
from coming in contact with the absorber. The
material used in the cover plate is fibre glass of
having length of 170 cm, breadth 100 cm and
thickness 4 mm.
Absorber plate: This is a metal sheet painted black
and placed below the cover to absorb, the incident
solar radiation transmitted by cover thereby heating
the air between it and the cover. Here GI sheet is
chosen because its quick response in absorption of
solar radiation and also aluminium sheet is placed
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1686
below the GI sheet because of its good ability to keep
the absorbed solar radiation.
Insulation: This is used to minimize heat loss from
the system. Insulations were provided on the surface
of the pipes connecting the collector with the dryer.
The insulating material used is foam rubber.
Construction of the solar collector is shown in Fig.2
Fig-2: Construction of solar collector
Drying Cabinet: The drying cabinet together with
the structural frame of the dryer was built from well-
seasoned woods, which could withstand termite and
atmospheric attacks. An outlet vent was provided
toward the upper end at the back of the cabinet to
facilitate and control the convection flow of air
through the dryer (Fig-3). Access door to the drying
chamber was also provided at the side of the cabinet.
Chamber dimensions are: Length=146 cm,
Breadth=100 cm, Height=60 cm, Thickness=0.45 cm.
Fig-3: Construction of Drying Cabinet
Air Blower: The air blower that is used is the
centrifugal air blower that has a Horse Power of 0.28;
Power of 210 Watts; Speed is 2800 rpm(Fig-4).
Fig-4: Air Blower
Electronic devices: The electronic devices that were
employed for calculating the readings include
Hygrometer ( Range: -200C to 500C, dimension (l× b
×h): 30cm×9cm×2.5cm), Digital LCD Thermometer (
Range: -500C to 2500C and accuracy: +10 C, Operating
Voltage: 2 × 1.5V ), Digital Thermometer
Temperature Test Pen (Temperature range: -500C to
3000C ) .
2.2 Experimental setup
The solar dryer was placed on the ground level of a
building based on the design. A centrifugal pump was
employed in order to speed up the rate of drying
process and baffles were employed as a new
introduction. The baffles were placed inside the
collector so that flow of hot air inside the collector
becomes non-linear, thus it will take more time to
travel and thereby it will raise the temperature of the
air trapped inside. The experimental setup of the
solar dryer is shown in Fig-5.
Fig-5: The experimental Setup of the Solar Dryer
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1687
2.3 Thermal Analysis
In the design, a flat plate collector with an area of 1.7
x 1 m2 is considered. The performance of the
collector is described by an energy balance that
indicates the conversion of solar radiation into useful
energy gain and losses. The thermal analysis was
done to calculate the heat gain and the losses for flow
of air between glass cover and absorber plate.
Several formulations were employed and
calculations were done to find out the overall
efficiency of the dryer and the collector. The concept
of heat transfer has been used throughout the whole
project.
The transmittance () of a glass cover for solar
radiation depends on the angle of incidence. Typical
values for clear glass are given in Table 1.
Table-1: Transmittance of a glass cover
Transmittance of a Glass Cover
: 0° 60° 70° 80° 90°
(): 0.9 0.8 0.65 0.35 0
The absorptance() of the black plate for solar
radiation also depends on the angle of incidence.
Table 2 shows typical values for () and the
product ().().
Table- 2 : Absorptance of black plate
Absorptance of a Black Plate.
: 0° 60° 70° 80° 90°
(): 0.92 0.85 0.75 0.60 0
().(): 0.83 0.68 0.49 0.21 0
The solar irradiance Iin incident on the cover glass is
given by
cosin b dI I I  ………………(1)
Where Ib is the beam solar irradiance,  is the angle
of incidence, and Id is the diffuse irradiance.
If there is one glass cover the solar irradiance on the
black plate is
( ). cosb m dI I   
……. ..(2)
Where m is the mean value of (). The solar
radiation flux qabs absorbed by the black plate is
given by
( ). ( ) cos ( . )abs b m dq I I       
..........
(3)
Where (.)m is the mean value of ().(). The
mean value of ().() can be found by means of
integrals over the hemispherical sky as follows:
/2 /2
0 0
( . ) [ ( ). ( ).sin .cos . ( )]/[ sin .cos . ( )]m d d
 
             
For one glass cover the result is
approximately (.)m = 0.70.
Heat Losses
The glass cover behaves nearly as a black body for
long-wave radiation. We can assume that the
emittance c of the glass cover is 0.95.
The emittance b of the black plate for long-wave
radiation depends on whether the surface is non-
selective or selective. Typically we have
b = 0.92 for a non-selective surface,
b = 0.10 for a selective surface.
We shall consider a collector with one glass cover.
Let
Ta = ambient temperature,
Tb = black plate temperature,
Tc = glass cover temperature,
where absolute temperatures must be used for
radiation calculations.
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1688
Heat is lost by conduction through the back
insulation. It can be reduced to a low rate by
inexpensive insulation materials. Typically the back
loss might be given by the formula
( )ba b ah T T …………………..(4)
where the heat transfer coefficient is hba =
0.3W/m2K.
Heat is lost from the black plate to the glass cover by
convection and radiation. Experience has shown that,
for free convection the Nusselt number Nu in air
spaces between parallel plates with Grashoff
numbers (Gr)in the range 104 to 107, we have
uN = 0.152 Gr0.281for horizontal plates,
uN = 0.093 Gr0.310for plates tilted at an angle
45°.
Here
rG = g.(TbTc)L3/2, ……………………….(5)
where we assume as a typical example for air:
g = acceleration of gravity == 9.8m/s2,
 = coefficient of thermal expansion = 1/T, T
= 69°C = 342K,
 = 0.002923
b cT T = 89°C  40°C = 49K,
L = spacing = 50mm = 0.075m,
 = kinematic viscosity = 0.194×104m2/s.
rG =9.8*2.92210-3*49*0.075^3/
(0.194*105)^2
This gives rG = 15.7×105, which is within the
range 104 to 107 mentioned above.
Assume a tilt angle 45°. Then we estimate, by
interpolation,
uN = 0.132
rG 0.291= 8.386
Also since
uN = hL/k,
h=8.386*0.02750/0.075
h = 3.07W/m2K
where
h = heat transfer coefficient,
L = 0.075m,
k = thermal conductivity of air =
0.02750W/mK,
we have h = 3.07W/m2K
g=0.875
()=0.95
TI =(800 – 1100) 2
/W m
mass of air =0.0214kg/sec
g=0.94 ; r= 0.94
The Overall Heat transfer coefficient (U)
1 1 * 1
* *
K A
U h A L h A
   …………………..(6)
A =1.75 2
m
=3.07 2
/W m
=0.0275 /W mK
U =2.5 2
/W m K
The energy balance on the absorber is obtained by
equating the total heat gained to the total heat loosed
by the heat absorber of the solar collector. Therefore,
c u cond conv RIA Q Q Q Q Q     ……………………(7)
K
h
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1689
If  is the transmittance of the top glazing and TI is
the total solar radiation incident on the top surface,
where total solar radiation value is (800 – 1100)
W/m2. Therefore,
c T cIA I A …………………………………………….(8)
=0.8×800×1.75
=1120 W
( )L L c c aQ U A T T  ……………..…………………(9)
= 2.5×1.75× (57.9-32.8)
= 109.81 W
where: = LU overall heat transfer coefficient of the
absorber (Wm–2K–1);
For an absorber (1 )   and hence,
( )u T c LQ I A Q  ……………………… (10)
= 0.8×0.95×800× (1.75−109.81)
= 954.19 W
The collector heat removal factor, RF is the quantity
that relates the actual useful energy gained of a
collector.
Therefore,
.
( - )
[ - ( - )]
m C T Ta pa c a
F
R A I U T Tc T L c a
 ............................(11)
=(0.0214×1005(57.9−32.8)/
(1.75[0.8×0.98×800−2.5 (57.9−32.8)]
=0.5464 W
If gQ the heated air leaving the collector is at
collector temperature, the heat gained by the air is:
[( ) ( )]g c R T L c c aQ A F I U A T T   .…………..... (12)
=1.75×0.5464× [0.8×0.98×800−2.5×1.75(57.9−32.8)]
= 494.72 W
The thermal efficiency of the collector is given by:
g
c
c T
Q
n
A I

..................……….. (13)
= 494.72/ (1.75×800)
= 0.3533
≈ 35.33 %
The thermal efficiency of the dryer is given by:
..................................................(14)
=(0.1642×25.5×10^6)/
(800×1.75×6×3600)
= 0.1384
≈ 13.8 %
2.4 Experimental Procedure
The experiments were conducted in the months
of March and April, from daily 9 am to 4:30 pm. The
readings of the temperatures at the entry, middle and
exit of the glass cover, absorber plate and bottom
insulation were calculated using various electronic
instruments as mentioned above. The temperature of
the air in the drying chamber and the atmosphere
were measured using hygrometer. Good quality
green apples were washed and cut into small slices (
5mm ). The sample was measured using a digital
weighing pan and 800 grams of the slices divided
equally in two parts were used for drying. One part of
the sample was placed inside the drying chamber
and the other part was placed under direct sunlight.
Temperature and humidity readings were taken at
equal intervals from 9 am to 4 pm. Chemical analysis
of the solar dried and sun dried samples was carried
out in order to find out its quality. Chemical analysis
was carried out using standard methods [7] to find
out the organic matter (OM),crude protein(CP),ether
extract(EE),ash content and dry matter(DM) of
samples.
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
The results of the hourly variations of the
temperatures in the drying chamber and solar
collector compared to the ambient temperature are
shown in Table- 3 and Chart-1. The temperature
inside the drying chamber and the solar collector
was much higher than the ambient temperature
during most hours of the daylight. The temperature
inside the drying chamber was found to be the
highest (510
C) at 1 pm. The relative humidity
percentage of the drying chamber and the ambient
d
c
ML
n
I At

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1690
air humidity was observed and the results are given
in the Table -4 and Chart- 2. The relative humidity
percentage in drying chamber was almost equal to
the ambient humidity percentage at 9 am, but the
humidity percentage declines sharply up to 3pm in
the drying chamber compared to the ambient
humidity. The lowest humidity inside the drying
chamber was also recorded at 1 pm. The higher
temperature and lower humidity favours better
drying without much change in colour (Figs-6,7,8).
Other workers have also reported that agricultural
products specially fruit and vegetables require
higher temperature for safe drying and drying under
controlled condition at specific humidity gives
superior quality products [8]. Use of forced
convection solar dryer for drying fruits and
vegetables has been reported by several workers
and it is considered as more efficient than natural
convection dryers [9,10]. In the present study the
thermal efficiency of the collector and the dryer
was found to be 35.33 % and 13.8 % respectively.
Table -3: A typical day results of the diurnal
variation of temperatures in the solar dryer
Time
(hr)
Ambient
Temp.(C)
Drying
Chamber
Temp.(C)
Collector
Temperat
ure(C)
9.00 am 30 39 48
10.00am 32 47 57.7
11.00 am 33 46.8 59
12.00pm 35 49 60.2
1.00pm 37.85 51 62.2
2.00pm 34 47.32 58
3.00pm 32.5 47 57.85
4.00pm 30 38.3 46.5
Chart-1: Variation of temperatures in solar collector,
drying chamber and ambient temperature
Table - 4: A typical day results of the diurnal variation
of relative humidity in the dryer
Time
(hr)
Ambi
ent
Temp
.(C)
DBT
Ambi
ent
Temp
.(C)
WBT
Ambie
nt Air
Humidi
ty
(%)
Drying
Chamb
er
Temp.
(C)
DBT
Dryin
g
Cham
ber
Temp
.(C)
WBT
Dryin
g
Cham
ber
Humi
dity
(%)
9 am 30 26 72.7 39 34 71
10am 32 28 73.6 47 38 56.4
11am 33 29 74.1 46.8 34 42
12am 35 31 74.9 49 34 36.3
1 pm 37.8 30 57.7 51 30.5 22.6
2 pm 34 28.3 64.9 47.32 29 25.3
3 pm 32.5 28 70.9 47 30 28.8
4 pm 30 25 66.5 38.3 31 59.1
Chart- 2 : Variation of the relative humidity of the
ambient air and drying chamber
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1691
The results of hourly moisture loss and mass of the
green apple slices in the drying chamber and under
sun drying are shown in the Table- 5 and Chart-3.
The percentage of moisture loss of the sample in the
drying chamber was found to be higher as compared
to the sun drying in all the hours from 10 am to 4
pm. The mass of water removed in the drying
chamber was also found to be higher (164.2 g) as
compared to the sun drying (155.4 g).
Table -5 : Hourly moisture loss and mass of the
green apple sample
Time
(hr)
Mass
of
green
apple
(g)
(Dryi
ng
Cham
ber)
Moist
-ure
Loss
(g)
(Dryi
ng
Cham
ber)
%
Moist
ure
Loss
(Dryi
ng
Cham
ber)
Mass
of
green
apple
(g)
(Sun
Dryin
g)
Moist
ure
Loss
(g)
(Sun
Dryin
g
%
Moist
ure
Loss
(Sun
Dryin
g
9.00 am 200 0 0 200 0 0
10.00a
m
138.3 61.7 30.8 149.2 50.78 25.3
11.00a
m
92.2 46 33.3 108.6 40.64 27.3
12.00p
m
67.7 24.5 26.5 92.25 16.33 15.03
1.00pm 52.2 15.5 22.8 80.2 12.05 13.06
2.00pm 44.1 8.1 15.5 75.25 4.95 6.17
3.00pm 38 6.1 13.8 70.2 5.05 5.97
4.00pm 34 4 10.53 44.6 3 3.64
Chart- 3: Hourly moisture loss of green apple sample
at different time period
The results of the chemical analysis in respect
to the organic matter(OM),crude protein(CP) ,ether
extract(EE), ash and dry matter (DM) content of the
green apple slices dried under the open sun and the
solar dryer are shown in the Table -6 . Crude protein
content of the solar dried samples was found to be
higher compared to the sun dried samples, which
indicates the loss of crude protein during sun drying .
Lower organic matter and higher dry matter in the
solar dried samples compared to the sun dried
samples also suggests that solar drying is
advantageous for better preservation.
Table -6: Chemical analysis of the sun dried and
solar dried green apple slices
Samples
OM
%
CP % EE % Ash % DM
Sun dried
green
apple slices
96.6
4 ±
0.17
2.78 ±
0.28
2.10 ±
0.02
3.36 ±
0.17
82.52 ±
0.33
Solar dried
green
apple slices
96.5
0 ±
0.13
3.32 ±
0.69
2.11 ±
0.03
3.50 ±
0.13
83.17 ±
0.20
Fig-6: Fresh Sample of Green Apple Slices
Fig-7: Green Apple
slices dried inside the
drying chamber
Fig-8: Green Apple
slices dried under
open sunlight
International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072
© 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1692
4. CONCLUSIONS
An indirect forced convection solar dryer was
designed, fabricated and its performance was
evaluated using green apple slices. The dryer has
been designed indigenously using locally available
materials for construction and it is cost effective. In
the dryer, the heated air from a separate solar
collector is allowed to pass through the products
placed inside the drying chamber. The solar energy
which is get absorbed inside the collector is allowed
to pass through some well created baffles. The
temperature inside the drying chamber and the solar
collector was much higher than the ambient
temperature during most hours of the daylight,
which was useful for better drying. The relative
humidity inside the drying chamber was also less
during different time. The percentage of moisture
loss and mass of water removed in the drying
chamber was higher compared to open sun drying.
Higher crude protein and dry matter contents in the
solar dried green apple slices also indicate that the
solar drying is better than the sun drying. The
constructed solar dryer will be useful for drying
agricultural products in rural areas as it is cost
effective.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are thankful to Prof. P Muthukumar,
Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Guwahati
and Dr. Dilip Kumar Sarma, Director, ICAR-NRC on
Pig, Guwahati for their advice and help both
theoretically and practically. We would like to take
the opportunity to thank the Principal, Royal School
of Engineering and Technology, Guwahati and entire
faculty members of Department of Mechanical
Engineering, Royal School of Engineering &
Technology, Guwahati for their valuable help and
support.
REFERENCES
[1] Y. Baradey et.al, “Solar drying of fruits and
vegetables”,International Journal of Recent
Developments in Engineering and Technology, 2016.
[2] Sushrut S. Halewadimath et. al, “Experimental
analysis of solar air dryer for agricultural
products”,International Research Journal of
Engineering and Technology(IRJET), 2015.
[3] A.A. El-Sebaii and S.M. Shalaby “ Solar drying of
agricultural products: A review”, Renewable and
Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2012.
[4] M.W.Bassey,”Development and use of solar
drying technologies”, Nigerian Journal of Solar
Energy, 1989.
[5] I.T. Togrul, I.T. and D. Pehlivan, “Modelling of thin
layer drying kinetics of some fruits under open-air
sun drying process”, Journal of Food Engineering,
2004.
[6] A. Sharma, et. al,“ Solar- energy drying systems:
A review”. Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Reviews, 2009.
[7] AOAC “Official methods of analysis “ 15th Edn.
Association of Official Analytical Chemicals
Arlington,Virginia, 1990.
[8] Gutti Babagana et.al,“ Design and construction of
forced /natural convection solar vegetable dryer
with heat storage, ARPN Journal of Engineering and
Applied Sciences, 2012.
[9] Vinay Narayan Hedge et.al,“ Design,fabrication
and performance evaluation of solar dryer for
banana , Energy,Sustainability and Society, 2015.
[10] M Isiaka et.al,“ Effect of selected factors on
drying process of tomato in forced convection solar
energy dryer”, Research Journal of Applied Science in
Engineering and Technology, 2012.
BIOGRAPHIES
Kaustav Bharadwaz, Student,
Mechanical Engineering, RSET,
Guwahati, Assam, India

More Related Content

What's hot

IRJET- A Solar Dryer Technology
IRJET- A Solar Dryer TechnologyIRJET- A Solar Dryer Technology
IRJET- A Solar Dryer TechnologyIRJET Journal
 
Potentialities of solar drying in food industry
Potentialities of solar drying in food industryPotentialities of solar drying in food industry
Potentialities of solar drying in food industrysujayasree o.j
 
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYER
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYERCOMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYER
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYERAchal Gupta
 
green house dryer for food drying
green house dryer for food dryinggreen house dryer for food drying
green house dryer for food dryingthsaro
 
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural Convection
IRJET-  	  Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural ConvectionIRJET-  	  Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural Convection
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural ConvectionIRJET Journal
 
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A Review
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A ReviewPreservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A Review
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A ReviewIJERA Editor
 
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYER
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYERPROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYER
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYERAnugrah Soy
 
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-Paulo Peixinho
 
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plants
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plantsDesign and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plants
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plantsMubashar Sharif
 
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryer
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryerDrying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryer
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryerIRJESJOURNAL
 
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnel
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnelSeminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnel
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnelIman Ghosh
 
Solar Drying—A Way of Food Processing
Solar Drying—A Way of FoodProcessingSolar Drying—A Way of FoodProcessing
Solar Drying—A Way of Food ProcessingHaris Khan
 
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegation
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegationSolar food drying Presentation for Thai delegation
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegationGordon Hirst
 

What's hot (20)

IRJET- A Solar Dryer Technology
IRJET- A Solar Dryer TechnologyIRJET- A Solar Dryer Technology
IRJET- A Solar Dryer Technology
 
Potentialities of solar drying in food industry
Potentialities of solar drying in food industryPotentialities of solar drying in food industry
Potentialities of solar drying in food industry
 
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYER
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYERCOMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYER
COMPUTER AIDED THERMAL DESIGN FOR A SOLAR DRYER
 
green house dryer for food drying
green house dryer for food dryinggreen house dryer for food drying
green house dryer for food drying
 
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural Convection
IRJET-  	  Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural ConvectionIRJET-  	  Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural Convection
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Solar Dryer by Natural Convection
 
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A Review
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A ReviewPreservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A Review
Preservation of Food Items Using Solar Dryers: A Review
 
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYER
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYERPROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYER
PROJECT REPORT ON SOLAR DRYER
 
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-
A review-on-solar-drying-of-agricultural-produce-
 
Solar food drying
Solar food drying Solar food drying
Solar food drying
 
Lumber ppt
Lumber pptLumber ppt
Lumber ppt
 
final ppt
final pptfinal ppt
final ppt
 
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plants
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plantsDesign and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plants
Design and development of solar air dryer for medicinal and aromatic plants
 
Solar dryers
Solar dryersSolar dryers
Solar dryers
 
Solar dryer
Solar dryerSolar dryer
Solar dryer
 
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryer
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryerDrying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryer
Drying of agricultural products using forced convection indirect solar dryer
 
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnel
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnelSeminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnel
Seminar on performance evaluation of a solar tunnel
 
Solar Drying—A Way of Food Processing
Solar Drying—A Way of FoodProcessingSolar Drying—A Way of FoodProcessing
Solar Drying—A Way of Food Processing
 
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegation
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegationSolar food drying Presentation for Thai delegation
Solar food drying Presentation for Thai delegation
 
Review on Solar Collector for Agricultural Produce
Review on Solar Collector for Agricultural ProduceReview on Solar Collector for Agricultural Produce
Review on Solar Collector for Agricultural Produce
 
Drying methods
Drying methodsDrying methods
Drying methods
 

Similar to Design, Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of an Indirect Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products

Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...
Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...
Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...IRJET Journal
 
IRJET- Hybrid Solar Fruit Dryer
IRJET-  	  Hybrid Solar Fruit DryerIRJET-  	  Hybrid Solar Fruit Dryer
IRJET- Hybrid Solar Fruit DryerIRJET Journal
 
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air Dryer
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air DryerDesign and Fabrication of Solar Air Dryer
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air DryerIRJET Journal
 
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...IRJET Journal
 
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar Dryer
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar DryerIRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar Dryer
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar DryerIRJET Journal
 
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for Turmeric
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for TurmericPerformance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for Turmeric
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for TurmericIRJET Journal
 
Irjet v4 i3442
Irjet v4 i3442Irjet v4 i3442
Irjet v4 i3442ALLISALUMU
 
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural ProductsDesign and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural ProductsIRJET Journal
 
Design and Development of Domestic Solar Dryer
Design and Development of Domestic Solar DryerDesign and Development of Domestic Solar Dryer
Design and Development of Domestic Solar DryerIRJET Journal
 
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cereals
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cerealsDesign of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cereals
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cerealsSumit Dharmarao
 
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cereals
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying CerealsDesign of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cereals
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cerealsijiert bestjournal
 
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptx
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptxFACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptx
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptxtelakekasahun
 
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic Applications
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic ApplicationsDevelopment of a Solar Drier for Domestic Applications
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic ApplicationsIJAEMSJORNAL
 
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar Dryer
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar DryerIRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar Dryer
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar DryerIRJET Journal
 
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated natural
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated naturalDrying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated natural
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated naturalIAEME Publication
 
Solar Drying Technologies: A review
Solar Drying Technologies: A reviewSolar Drying Technologies: A review
Solar Drying Technologies: A reviewirjes
 
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...IJERA Editor
 
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptx
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptxDESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptx
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptxPigPug1
 
IRJET- Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry Leaves
IRJET-  	  Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry LeavesIRJET-  	  Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry Leaves
IRJET- Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry LeavesIRJET Journal
 

Similar to Design, Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of an Indirect Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products (20)

Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...
Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...
Comparative Study of Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Verification ...
 
IRJET- Hybrid Solar Fruit Dryer
IRJET-  	  Hybrid Solar Fruit DryerIRJET-  	  Hybrid Solar Fruit Dryer
IRJET- Hybrid Solar Fruit Dryer
 
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air Dryer
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air DryerDesign and Fabrication of Solar Air Dryer
Design and Fabrication of Solar Air Dryer
 
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...
IRJET- Performance Analysis of Evacuated Tube Solar Dryer with Desiccant Dehu...
 
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar Dryer
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar DryerIRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar Dryer
IRJET- Recent Innovative Techniques for Developments of Solar Dryer
 
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for Turmeric
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for TurmericPerformance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for Turmeric
Performance Analysis of Forced Convection Solar Dryer for Turmeric
 
Irjet v4 i3442
Irjet v4 i3442Irjet v4 i3442
Irjet v4 i3442
 
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural ProductsDesign and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products
Design and Construction of Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products
 
Design and Development of Domestic Solar Dryer
Design and Development of Domestic Solar DryerDesign and Development of Domestic Solar Dryer
Design and Development of Domestic Solar Dryer
 
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cereals
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cerealsDesign of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cereals
Design of air preheater for solar dryer for drying cereals
 
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cereals
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying CerealsDesign of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cereals
Design of Air Preheater for Solar Dryer for Drying Cereals
 
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptx
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptxFACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptx
FACULTY.pptx POWER POINT.pptx
 
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic Applications
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic ApplicationsDevelopment of a Solar Drier for Domestic Applications
Development of a Solar Drier for Domestic Applications
 
E1303033137
E1303033137E1303033137
E1303033137
 
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar Dryer
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar DryerIRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar Dryer
IRJET- Design and Fabrication of Efficient Solar Dryer
 
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated natural
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated naturalDrying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated natural
Drying characteristics of a hygroscopic material in a fabricated natural
 
Solar Drying Technologies: A review
Solar Drying Technologies: A reviewSolar Drying Technologies: A review
Solar Drying Technologies: A review
 
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...
Design and Experimentation of Collector based Solar Dryer with Recirculation ...
 
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptx
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptxDESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptx
DESIGN OF MIXED MODE SOLAR CROP DRYER (_103848.pptx
 
IRJET- Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry Leaves
IRJET-  	  Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry LeavesIRJET-  	  Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry Leaves
IRJET- Artificial Lightning in Solar Tunnel Dryer for Curry Leaves
 

More from IRJET Journal

TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...
TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...
TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...IRJET Journal
 
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURE
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURESTUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURE
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTUREIRJET Journal
 
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...IRJET Journal
 
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil Characteristics
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil CharacteristicsEffect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil Characteristics
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil CharacteristicsIRJET Journal
 
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...IRJET Journal
 
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...IRJET Journal
 
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...IRJET Journal
 
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...IRJET Journal
 
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADAS
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADASA REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADAS
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADASIRJET Journal
 
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...IRJET Journal
 
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD Pro
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD ProP.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD Pro
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD ProIRJET Journal
 
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...IRJET Journal
 
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare System
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare SystemSurvey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare System
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare SystemIRJET Journal
 
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridges
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridgesReview on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridges
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridgesIRJET Journal
 
React based fullstack edtech web application
React based fullstack edtech web applicationReact based fullstack edtech web application
React based fullstack edtech web applicationIRJET Journal
 
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...IRJET Journal
 
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.IRJET Journal
 
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...IRJET Journal
 
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic Design
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic DesignMultistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic Design
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic DesignIRJET Journal
 
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...IRJET Journal
 

More from IRJET Journal (20)

TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...
TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...
TUNNELING IN HIMALAYAS WITH NATM METHOD: A SPECIAL REFERENCES TO SUNGAL TUNNE...
 
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURE
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURESTUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURE
STUDY THE EFFECT OF RESPONSE REDUCTION FACTOR ON RC FRAMED STRUCTURE
 
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RCC ELEMENT OF SLAB WITH STARK STEEL (HYSD STEEL) A...
 
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil Characteristics
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil CharacteristicsEffect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil Characteristics
Effect of Camber and Angles of Attack on Airfoil Characteristics
 
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...
A Review on the Progress and Challenges of Aluminum-Based Metal Matrix Compos...
 
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...
Dynamic Urban Transit Optimization: A Graph Neural Network Approach for Real-...
 
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...
Structural Analysis and Design of Multi-Storey Symmetric and Asymmetric Shape...
 
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...
A Review of “Seismic Response of RC Structures Having Plan and Vertical Irreg...
 
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADAS
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADASA REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADAS
A REVIEW ON MACHINE LEARNING IN ADAS
 
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...
Long Term Trend Analysis of Precipitation and Temperature for Asosa district,...
 
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD Pro
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD ProP.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD Pro
P.E.B. Framed Structure Design and Analysis Using STAAD Pro
 
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...
A Review on Innovative Fiber Integration for Enhanced Reinforcement of Concre...
 
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare System
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare SystemSurvey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare System
Survey Paper on Cloud-Based Secured Healthcare System
 
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridges
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridgesReview on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridges
Review on studies and research on widening of existing concrete bridges
 
React based fullstack edtech web application
React based fullstack edtech web applicationReact based fullstack edtech web application
React based fullstack edtech web application
 
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...
A Comprehensive Review of Integrating IoT and Blockchain Technologies in the ...
 
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.
A REVIEW ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE.
 
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...
Optimizing Business Management Process Workflows: The Dynamic Influence of Mi...
 
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic Design
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic DesignMultistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic Design
Multistoried and Multi Bay Steel Building Frame by using Seismic Design
 
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...
Cost Optimization of Construction Using Plastic Waste as a Sustainable Constr...
 

Recently uploaded

(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...
(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...
(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...ranjana rawat
 
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130Suhani Kapoor
 
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...ranjana rawat
 
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptx
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptxthe ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptx
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptxhumanexperienceaaa
 
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...ranjana rawat
 
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service Nashik
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service NashikCollege Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service Nashik
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service NashikCall Girls in Nagpur High Profile
 
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and working
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and workingUNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and working
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and workingrknatarajan
 
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escortsranjana rawat
 
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptx
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptxCoefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptx
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptxAsutosh Ranjan
 
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur EscortsHigh Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escortsranjana rawat
 
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptx
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptxIntroduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptx
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptxupamatechverse
 
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptx
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptxMicroscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptx
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptxpurnimasatapathy1234
 
Extrusion Processes and Their Limitations
Extrusion Processes and Their LimitationsExtrusion Processes and Their Limitations
Extrusion Processes and Their Limitations120cr0395
 
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur EscortsCall Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur EscortsCall Girls in Nagpur High Profile
 
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writing
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writingPorous Ceramics seminar and technical writing
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writingrakeshbaidya232001
 

Recently uploaded (20)

(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...
(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...
(TARA) Talegaon Dabhade Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] ...
 
★ CALL US 9953330565 ( HOT Young Call Girls In Badarpur delhi NCR
★ CALL US 9953330565 ( HOT Young Call Girls In Badarpur delhi NCR★ CALL US 9953330565 ( HOT Young Call Girls In Badarpur delhi NCR
★ CALL US 9953330565 ( HOT Young Call Girls In Badarpur delhi NCR
 
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130
VIP Call Girls Service Hitech City Hyderabad Call +91-8250192130
 
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(ANVI) Koregaon Park Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
 
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptx
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptxthe ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptx
the ladakh protest in leh ladakh 2024 sonam wangchuk.pptx
 
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
(PRIYA) Rajgurunagar Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pun...
 
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service Nashik
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service NashikCollege Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service Nashik
College Call Girls Nashik Nehal 7001305949 Independent Escort Service Nashik
 
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and working
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and workingUNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and working
UNIT-V FMM.HYDRAULIC TURBINE - Construction and working
 
Roadmap to Membership of RICS - Pathways and Routes
Roadmap to Membership of RICS - Pathways and RoutesRoadmap to Membership of RICS - Pathways and Routes
Roadmap to Membership of RICS - Pathways and Routes
 
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts
(MEERA) Dapodi Call Girls Just Call 7001035870 [ Cash on Delivery ] Pune Escorts
 
Call Us -/9953056974- Call Girls In Vikaspuri-/- Delhi NCR
Call Us -/9953056974- Call Girls In Vikaspuri-/- Delhi NCRCall Us -/9953056974- Call Girls In Vikaspuri-/- Delhi NCR
Call Us -/9953056974- Call Girls In Vikaspuri-/- Delhi NCR
 
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptx
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptxCoefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptx
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and their Importance.pptx
 
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur EscortsHigh Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
High Profile Call Girls Nagpur Isha Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
 
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptx
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptxIntroduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptx
Introduction to Multiple Access Protocol.pptx
 
DJARUM4D - SLOT GACOR ONLINE | SLOT DEMO ONLINE
DJARUM4D - SLOT GACOR ONLINE | SLOT DEMO ONLINEDJARUM4D - SLOT GACOR ONLINE | SLOT DEMO ONLINE
DJARUM4D - SLOT GACOR ONLINE | SLOT DEMO ONLINE
 
9953056974 Call Girls In South Ex, Escorts (Delhi) NCR.pdf
9953056974 Call Girls In South Ex, Escorts (Delhi) NCR.pdf9953056974 Call Girls In South Ex, Escorts (Delhi) NCR.pdf
9953056974 Call Girls In South Ex, Escorts (Delhi) NCR.pdf
 
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptx
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptxMicroscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptx
Microscopic Analysis of Ceramic Materials.pptx
 
Extrusion Processes and Their Limitations
Extrusion Processes and Their LimitationsExtrusion Processes and Their Limitations
Extrusion Processes and Their Limitations
 
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur EscortsCall Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
Call Girls Service Nagpur Tanvi Call 7001035870 Meet With Nagpur Escorts
 
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writing
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writingPorous Ceramics seminar and technical writing
Porous Ceramics seminar and technical writing
 

Design, Fabrication and Performance Evaluation of an Indirect Solar Dryer for Drying Agricultural Products

  • 1. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1684 DESIGN, FABRICATION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AN INDIRECT SOLAR DRYER FOR DRYING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS Kaustav Bharadwaz1, Debashish Barman2 , Debottam Bhowmik3, Zunaid Ahmed4 1 2 3 Students, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, RSET, Guwahati, Assam, India 4 Assistant Professor and Head, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, RSET, Guwahati, Assam, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------- Abstract- In a developing country like India, having the second largest population and agriculture as the source of income to nearly 60 % of the total population, post - harvest and storage loss of agricultural commodities is a major quandary, which needs to be addressed in due diligence. Many food preservation techniques like cold storage, drying, etc. have been evolved out over the years to tackle the above losses. The major constraint is that almost all the technologies are utilizing fossil fuel resources, which are depleting very fast and wise use of these precious resources are preferred for long-term energy sustainability. Therefore, sustainable methods for food preservation are the need of the hour. Solar drying is one of the best choices in this context. This paper presents the design, fabrication and performance evaluation of an indirect forced convection solar dryer consisting of a solar air collector, drying cabinet and a centrifugal blower. The dryer has been designed indigenously using locally available materials for construction and it is cost effective. In the dryer, the heated air from a separate solar collector is allowed to pass through the products placed inside the drying chamber. The solar energy which is get absorbed inside the collector is allowed to pass through some well created baffles. The baffles are placed inside the collector so that flow of hot air inside the collector become non linear, thus, taking more time to pass from the collector to the drying chamber and the air get heated. A centrifugal blower has also been employed in order to speed up the rate of drying process. The dryer can be used effectively for drying agricultural products and as a model green apple slices were used to evaluate the performance. Key words: Indirect solar dryer, forced convection, drying, agricultural products, green apple 1. INTRODUCTION Drying is one of the methods used to preserve food products for longer periods. The heat from the sun coupled with the wind has been used to dry food for preservation for several years. Drying is the oldest preservation technique of agricultural products and it is an energy intensive process. High prices and shortages of fossil fuels have increased the emphasis on using alternative renewable energy resources. Drying of agricultural products like fruits and vegetables using renewable energy such as solar energy is environmental friendly and has less environmental impact. Solar thermal technology is a technology that is rapidly gaining acceptance as an energy saving measure in agriculture application. It is preferred to other alternative sources of energy such as wind and shale, because it is abundant, inexhaustible, and non-polluting. Different types of solar dryers have been designed, developed and tested in the different regions of the tropics and subtropics [1, 2]. The two major categories of the dryers are natural convection solar dryers and forced convection solar dryers [3]. In the natural convection solar dryers the airflow is established by buoyancy induced airflow while in forced convection solar dryers the airflow is provided by using fan operated either by electricity/solar module or fossil fuel. Solar air dryers are simple devices to heat air by utilizing solar energy and it is employed in many applications requiring low to moderate temperature below 80°C, such as crop drying and space heating. Drying of agricultural products under direct sunlight also has several disadvantages like poor quality and contamination [3]. In comparison to natural sun drying, solar dryers generate higher temperatures, lower relative humidity, lower product moisture content and reduced spoilage during the drying process. In addition, it takes up less space, takes less time and relatively inexpensive compared to artificial mechanical drying method. Thus, solar drying is a better alternative solution to all the drawbacks of natural drying and artificial mechanical drying. Solar dryers are a very useful device for agricultural crop drying, food processing industries for dehydration of fruits and vegetables, fish and meat drying, dairy industries for production of milk powder, seasoning of wood and timber, textile industries for drying of textile materials, etc. Thus, solar dryer is one of the many ways of making use of solar energy efficiently in meeting man’s demand for energy and food supply, total system cost is a most important consideration in designing a solar dryer for agricultural uses. No matter how well a solar system operates, it will not gain widespread use unless it presents an economically feasible alternative to other available energy sources
  • 2. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1685 The application of solar dryers in developing countries can reduce post-harvest losses and significantly contribute to the availability of food in these countries. Estimated post-harvest losses are generally cited to be of the order of 40% but they can, under very adverse conditions, be nearly as high as 80%. A significant percentage of these losses are related to improper and/or untimely drying of foodstuffs such as cereal grains, pulses, tubers, meat, fish, etc. [4, 5]. Use of indirect type natural convection solar dryer for drying grapes, figs, onions, apples, tomatoes and green peas has been reported [3]. Solar drying is a potential decentralized thermal application of solar energy particularly in developing countries [6]. However, so far, there has been very little field penetration of solar drying technology. In the initial phase of dissemination, identification of suitable areas for using solar dryers would be extremely helpful towards their market penetration. Thus, the solar dryer is one of the many ways of making use of solar energy efficiently in meeting man’s demand for energy and food supply. No matter how well a solar system operates, it will not gain widespread use unless it presents an economically feasible alternative to other available energy sources. 2. DESIGN APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY In this project we have designed, fabricated and evaluated the performance of an indirect type solar dryer also called forced convection (active) type for drying agricultural products. The working model of indirect type solar dryer is based upon the concept of solar radiation absorption. The solar energy (sun energy) is trapped inside by using solar collector. The collector was made of wood and the absorber plate was painted with black colour so that it absorbs the maximum amount of sun radiation falling on it. A special care was taken by aligning it in an acute angle (30-40 degrees) so that the collector receives maximum amount of radiation. The solar energy, which gets absorbed inside the collector was allowed to pass through four well created baffles. The baffles were placed inside the collector so that flow of hot air inside the collector is not linear and when it is not linear, it will take more time to travel and thereby it will raise the temperature of the air trapped inside. This high temperature air gets exhausted from the collector through the passage provided at the exit of the collector. The temperature at the entry and exit of solar collector was measured using digital thermometer. The hot air was then sucked by using a centrifugal air blower so that this hot air gets forced inside the drying chamber. The products (green apple slices) were placed on the drying trays in the horizontal manner. The hot air was forced from the solar collector onto the drying chamber with the help of a centrifugal blower and the heated air inside the drying chamber moves out through the exhaust vent. The orthogonal view of the indirect solar dryer is shown in Fig- 1. Fig- 1: Orthogonal view of the Indirect Solar Dryer (dimensions in cm) 2.1 Appliances used The appliances used in solar dryer consist of solar collector (air heater), cover plate, absorber plate, drying cabinet and air blower ,which are mentioned below along with the specifications: Solar Collector: The inner box of the solar air collector was constructed using 1 mm thick galvanized plate and the surface facing sunlight was painted with black paint .The solar collector was insulated with wood of about 3cm thickness and thermal conductivity of 0.04 Wm-1 K-1 on all sides. The solar collector assembly consists of air flow channel enclosed by transparent cover (fibre glass). The fibre glass is a single layer of 4 mm thick transparent glass sheet. It has a surface area of 0.82 by 1.20 cm, thermal conductivity 0.024 Wm-1 K-1 and of transmittance above 0.85. Cover plate: This is a transparent sheet used to cover the absorber, thereby preventing dust and rain from coming in contact with the absorber. The material used in the cover plate is fibre glass of having length of 170 cm, breadth 100 cm and thickness 4 mm. Absorber plate: This is a metal sheet painted black and placed below the cover to absorb, the incident solar radiation transmitted by cover thereby heating the air between it and the cover. Here GI sheet is chosen because its quick response in absorption of solar radiation and also aluminium sheet is placed
  • 3. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1686 below the GI sheet because of its good ability to keep the absorbed solar radiation. Insulation: This is used to minimize heat loss from the system. Insulations were provided on the surface of the pipes connecting the collector with the dryer. The insulating material used is foam rubber. Construction of the solar collector is shown in Fig.2 Fig-2: Construction of solar collector Drying Cabinet: The drying cabinet together with the structural frame of the dryer was built from well- seasoned woods, which could withstand termite and atmospheric attacks. An outlet vent was provided toward the upper end at the back of the cabinet to facilitate and control the convection flow of air through the dryer (Fig-3). Access door to the drying chamber was also provided at the side of the cabinet. Chamber dimensions are: Length=146 cm, Breadth=100 cm, Height=60 cm, Thickness=0.45 cm. Fig-3: Construction of Drying Cabinet Air Blower: The air blower that is used is the centrifugal air blower that has a Horse Power of 0.28; Power of 210 Watts; Speed is 2800 rpm(Fig-4). Fig-4: Air Blower Electronic devices: The electronic devices that were employed for calculating the readings include Hygrometer ( Range: -200C to 500C, dimension (l× b ×h): 30cm×9cm×2.5cm), Digital LCD Thermometer ( Range: -500C to 2500C and accuracy: +10 C, Operating Voltage: 2 × 1.5V ), Digital Thermometer Temperature Test Pen (Temperature range: -500C to 3000C ) . 2.2 Experimental setup The solar dryer was placed on the ground level of a building based on the design. A centrifugal pump was employed in order to speed up the rate of drying process and baffles were employed as a new introduction. The baffles were placed inside the collector so that flow of hot air inside the collector becomes non-linear, thus it will take more time to travel and thereby it will raise the temperature of the air trapped inside. The experimental setup of the solar dryer is shown in Fig-5. Fig-5: The experimental Setup of the Solar Dryer
  • 4. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1687 2.3 Thermal Analysis In the design, a flat plate collector with an area of 1.7 x 1 m2 is considered. The performance of the collector is described by an energy balance that indicates the conversion of solar radiation into useful energy gain and losses. The thermal analysis was done to calculate the heat gain and the losses for flow of air between glass cover and absorber plate. Several formulations were employed and calculations were done to find out the overall efficiency of the dryer and the collector. The concept of heat transfer has been used throughout the whole project. The transmittance () of a glass cover for solar radiation depends on the angle of incidence. Typical values for clear glass are given in Table 1. Table-1: Transmittance of a glass cover Transmittance of a Glass Cover : 0° 60° 70° 80° 90° (): 0.9 0.8 0.65 0.35 0 The absorptance() of the black plate for solar radiation also depends on the angle of incidence. Table 2 shows typical values for () and the product ().(). Table- 2 : Absorptance of black plate Absorptance of a Black Plate. : 0° 60° 70° 80° 90° (): 0.92 0.85 0.75 0.60 0 ().(): 0.83 0.68 0.49 0.21 0 The solar irradiance Iin incident on the cover glass is given by cosin b dI I I  ………………(1) Where Ib is the beam solar irradiance,  is the angle of incidence, and Id is the diffuse irradiance. If there is one glass cover the solar irradiance on the black plate is ( ). cosb m dI I    ……. ..(2) Where m is the mean value of (). The solar radiation flux qabs absorbed by the black plate is given by ( ). ( ) cos ( . )abs b m dq I I        .......... (3) Where (.)m is the mean value of ().(). The mean value of ().() can be found by means of integrals over the hemispherical sky as follows: /2 /2 0 0 ( . ) [ ( ). ( ).sin .cos . ( )]/[ sin .cos . ( )]m d d                 For one glass cover the result is approximately (.)m = 0.70. Heat Losses The glass cover behaves nearly as a black body for long-wave radiation. We can assume that the emittance c of the glass cover is 0.95. The emittance b of the black plate for long-wave radiation depends on whether the surface is non- selective or selective. Typically we have b = 0.92 for a non-selective surface, b = 0.10 for a selective surface. We shall consider a collector with one glass cover. Let Ta = ambient temperature, Tb = black plate temperature, Tc = glass cover temperature, where absolute temperatures must be used for radiation calculations.
  • 5. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1688 Heat is lost by conduction through the back insulation. It can be reduced to a low rate by inexpensive insulation materials. Typically the back loss might be given by the formula ( )ba b ah T T …………………..(4) where the heat transfer coefficient is hba = 0.3W/m2K. Heat is lost from the black plate to the glass cover by convection and radiation. Experience has shown that, for free convection the Nusselt number Nu in air spaces between parallel plates with Grashoff numbers (Gr)in the range 104 to 107, we have uN = 0.152 Gr0.281for horizontal plates, uN = 0.093 Gr0.310for plates tilted at an angle 45°. Here rG = g.(TbTc)L3/2, ……………………….(5) where we assume as a typical example for air: g = acceleration of gravity == 9.8m/s2,  = coefficient of thermal expansion = 1/T, T = 69°C = 342K,  = 0.002923 b cT T = 89°C  40°C = 49K, L = spacing = 50mm = 0.075m,  = kinematic viscosity = 0.194×104m2/s. rG =9.8*2.92210-3*49*0.075^3/ (0.194*105)^2 This gives rG = 15.7×105, which is within the range 104 to 107 mentioned above. Assume a tilt angle 45°. Then we estimate, by interpolation, uN = 0.132 rG 0.291= 8.386 Also since uN = hL/k, h=8.386*0.02750/0.075 h = 3.07W/m2K where h = heat transfer coefficient, L = 0.075m, k = thermal conductivity of air = 0.02750W/mK, we have h = 3.07W/m2K g=0.875 ()=0.95 TI =(800 – 1100) 2 /W m mass of air =0.0214kg/sec g=0.94 ; r= 0.94 The Overall Heat transfer coefficient (U) 1 1 * 1 * * K A U h A L h A    …………………..(6) A =1.75 2 m =3.07 2 /W m =0.0275 /W mK U =2.5 2 /W m K The energy balance on the absorber is obtained by equating the total heat gained to the total heat loosed by the heat absorber of the solar collector. Therefore, c u cond conv RIA Q Q Q Q Q     ……………………(7) K h
  • 6. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1689 If  is the transmittance of the top glazing and TI is the total solar radiation incident on the top surface, where total solar radiation value is (800 – 1100) W/m2. Therefore, c T cIA I A …………………………………………….(8) =0.8×800×1.75 =1120 W ( )L L c c aQ U A T T  ……………..…………………(9) = 2.5×1.75× (57.9-32.8) = 109.81 W where: = LU overall heat transfer coefficient of the absorber (Wm–2K–1); For an absorber (1 )   and hence, ( )u T c LQ I A Q  ……………………… (10) = 0.8×0.95×800× (1.75−109.81) = 954.19 W The collector heat removal factor, RF is the quantity that relates the actual useful energy gained of a collector. Therefore, . ( - ) [ - ( - )] m C T Ta pa c a F R A I U T Tc T L c a  ............................(11) =(0.0214×1005(57.9−32.8)/ (1.75[0.8×0.98×800−2.5 (57.9−32.8)] =0.5464 W If gQ the heated air leaving the collector is at collector temperature, the heat gained by the air is: [( ) ( )]g c R T L c c aQ A F I U A T T   .…………..... (12) =1.75×0.5464× [0.8×0.98×800−2.5×1.75(57.9−32.8)] = 494.72 W The thermal efficiency of the collector is given by: g c c T Q n A I  ..................……….. (13) = 494.72/ (1.75×800) = 0.3533 ≈ 35.33 % The thermal efficiency of the dryer is given by: ..................................................(14) =(0.1642×25.5×10^6)/ (800×1.75×6×3600) = 0.1384 ≈ 13.8 % 2.4 Experimental Procedure The experiments were conducted in the months of March and April, from daily 9 am to 4:30 pm. The readings of the temperatures at the entry, middle and exit of the glass cover, absorber plate and bottom insulation were calculated using various electronic instruments as mentioned above. The temperature of the air in the drying chamber and the atmosphere were measured using hygrometer. Good quality green apples were washed and cut into small slices ( 5mm ). The sample was measured using a digital weighing pan and 800 grams of the slices divided equally in two parts were used for drying. One part of the sample was placed inside the drying chamber and the other part was placed under direct sunlight. Temperature and humidity readings were taken at equal intervals from 9 am to 4 pm. Chemical analysis of the solar dried and sun dried samples was carried out in order to find out its quality. Chemical analysis was carried out using standard methods [7] to find out the organic matter (OM),crude protein(CP),ether extract(EE),ash content and dry matter(DM) of samples. 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS The results of the hourly variations of the temperatures in the drying chamber and solar collector compared to the ambient temperature are shown in Table- 3 and Chart-1. The temperature inside the drying chamber and the solar collector was much higher than the ambient temperature during most hours of the daylight. The temperature inside the drying chamber was found to be the highest (510 C) at 1 pm. The relative humidity percentage of the drying chamber and the ambient d c ML n I At 
  • 7. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1690 air humidity was observed and the results are given in the Table -4 and Chart- 2. The relative humidity percentage in drying chamber was almost equal to the ambient humidity percentage at 9 am, but the humidity percentage declines sharply up to 3pm in the drying chamber compared to the ambient humidity. The lowest humidity inside the drying chamber was also recorded at 1 pm. The higher temperature and lower humidity favours better drying without much change in colour (Figs-6,7,8). Other workers have also reported that agricultural products specially fruit and vegetables require higher temperature for safe drying and drying under controlled condition at specific humidity gives superior quality products [8]. Use of forced convection solar dryer for drying fruits and vegetables has been reported by several workers and it is considered as more efficient than natural convection dryers [9,10]. In the present study the thermal efficiency of the collector and the dryer was found to be 35.33 % and 13.8 % respectively. Table -3: A typical day results of the diurnal variation of temperatures in the solar dryer Time (hr) Ambient Temp.(C) Drying Chamber Temp.(C) Collector Temperat ure(C) 9.00 am 30 39 48 10.00am 32 47 57.7 11.00 am 33 46.8 59 12.00pm 35 49 60.2 1.00pm 37.85 51 62.2 2.00pm 34 47.32 58 3.00pm 32.5 47 57.85 4.00pm 30 38.3 46.5 Chart-1: Variation of temperatures in solar collector, drying chamber and ambient temperature Table - 4: A typical day results of the diurnal variation of relative humidity in the dryer Time (hr) Ambi ent Temp .(C) DBT Ambi ent Temp .(C) WBT Ambie nt Air Humidi ty (%) Drying Chamb er Temp. (C) DBT Dryin g Cham ber Temp .(C) WBT Dryin g Cham ber Humi dity (%) 9 am 30 26 72.7 39 34 71 10am 32 28 73.6 47 38 56.4 11am 33 29 74.1 46.8 34 42 12am 35 31 74.9 49 34 36.3 1 pm 37.8 30 57.7 51 30.5 22.6 2 pm 34 28.3 64.9 47.32 29 25.3 3 pm 32.5 28 70.9 47 30 28.8 4 pm 30 25 66.5 38.3 31 59.1 Chart- 2 : Variation of the relative humidity of the ambient air and drying chamber
  • 8. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1691 The results of hourly moisture loss and mass of the green apple slices in the drying chamber and under sun drying are shown in the Table- 5 and Chart-3. The percentage of moisture loss of the sample in the drying chamber was found to be higher as compared to the sun drying in all the hours from 10 am to 4 pm. The mass of water removed in the drying chamber was also found to be higher (164.2 g) as compared to the sun drying (155.4 g). Table -5 : Hourly moisture loss and mass of the green apple sample Time (hr) Mass of green apple (g) (Dryi ng Cham ber) Moist -ure Loss (g) (Dryi ng Cham ber) % Moist ure Loss (Dryi ng Cham ber) Mass of green apple (g) (Sun Dryin g) Moist ure Loss (g) (Sun Dryin g % Moist ure Loss (Sun Dryin g 9.00 am 200 0 0 200 0 0 10.00a m 138.3 61.7 30.8 149.2 50.78 25.3 11.00a m 92.2 46 33.3 108.6 40.64 27.3 12.00p m 67.7 24.5 26.5 92.25 16.33 15.03 1.00pm 52.2 15.5 22.8 80.2 12.05 13.06 2.00pm 44.1 8.1 15.5 75.25 4.95 6.17 3.00pm 38 6.1 13.8 70.2 5.05 5.97 4.00pm 34 4 10.53 44.6 3 3.64 Chart- 3: Hourly moisture loss of green apple sample at different time period The results of the chemical analysis in respect to the organic matter(OM),crude protein(CP) ,ether extract(EE), ash and dry matter (DM) content of the green apple slices dried under the open sun and the solar dryer are shown in the Table -6 . Crude protein content of the solar dried samples was found to be higher compared to the sun dried samples, which indicates the loss of crude protein during sun drying . Lower organic matter and higher dry matter in the solar dried samples compared to the sun dried samples also suggests that solar drying is advantageous for better preservation. Table -6: Chemical analysis of the sun dried and solar dried green apple slices Samples OM % CP % EE % Ash % DM Sun dried green apple slices 96.6 4 ± 0.17 2.78 ± 0.28 2.10 ± 0.02 3.36 ± 0.17 82.52 ± 0.33 Solar dried green apple slices 96.5 0 ± 0.13 3.32 ± 0.69 2.11 ± 0.03 3.50 ± 0.13 83.17 ± 0.20 Fig-6: Fresh Sample of Green Apple Slices Fig-7: Green Apple slices dried inside the drying chamber Fig-8: Green Apple slices dried under open sunlight
  • 9. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056 Volume: 04 Issue: 07 | July -2017 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072 © 2017, IRJET | Impact Factor value: 5.181 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Journal | Page 1692 4. CONCLUSIONS An indirect forced convection solar dryer was designed, fabricated and its performance was evaluated using green apple slices. The dryer has been designed indigenously using locally available materials for construction and it is cost effective. In the dryer, the heated air from a separate solar collector is allowed to pass through the products placed inside the drying chamber. The solar energy which is get absorbed inside the collector is allowed to pass through some well created baffles. The temperature inside the drying chamber and the solar collector was much higher than the ambient temperature during most hours of the daylight, which was useful for better drying. The relative humidity inside the drying chamber was also less during different time. The percentage of moisture loss and mass of water removed in the drying chamber was higher compared to open sun drying. Higher crude protein and dry matter contents in the solar dried green apple slices also indicate that the solar drying is better than the sun drying. The constructed solar dryer will be useful for drying agricultural products in rural areas as it is cost effective. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We are thankful to Prof. P Muthukumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Guwahati and Dr. Dilip Kumar Sarma, Director, ICAR-NRC on Pig, Guwahati for their advice and help both theoretically and practically. We would like to take the opportunity to thank the Principal, Royal School of Engineering and Technology, Guwahati and entire faculty members of Department of Mechanical Engineering, Royal School of Engineering & Technology, Guwahati for their valuable help and support. REFERENCES [1] Y. Baradey et.al, “Solar drying of fruits and vegetables”,International Journal of Recent Developments in Engineering and Technology, 2016. [2] Sushrut S. Halewadimath et. al, “Experimental analysis of solar air dryer for agricultural products”,International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology(IRJET), 2015. [3] A.A. El-Sebaii and S.M. Shalaby “ Solar drying of agricultural products: A review”, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2012. [4] M.W.Bassey,”Development and use of solar drying technologies”, Nigerian Journal of Solar Energy, 1989. [5] I.T. Togrul, I.T. and D. Pehlivan, “Modelling of thin layer drying kinetics of some fruits under open-air sun drying process”, Journal of Food Engineering, 2004. [6] A. Sharma, et. al,“ Solar- energy drying systems: A review”. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2009. [7] AOAC “Official methods of analysis “ 15th Edn. Association of Official Analytical Chemicals Arlington,Virginia, 1990. [8] Gutti Babagana et.al,“ Design and construction of forced /natural convection solar vegetable dryer with heat storage, ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2012. [9] Vinay Narayan Hedge et.al,“ Design,fabrication and performance evaluation of solar dryer for banana , Energy,Sustainability and Society, 2015. [10] M Isiaka et.al,“ Effect of selected factors on drying process of tomato in forced convection solar energy dryer”, Research Journal of Applied Science in Engineering and Technology, 2012. BIOGRAPHIES Kaustav Bharadwaz, Student, Mechanical Engineering, RSET, Guwahati, Assam, India