Determination of Loading Capacity of a Direct Solar Boiler Dryer

摘要

Thermodynamic analysis of solar boiler natural convection dryer used for drying agricultural products was employed to dry restaurant wastes. Practical steps were taken to determine the loading capacity of the dryer. Replicas of the dryer (dimensions and materials) were selected and employed but with varying loads. This dryer is made up of glass flat-plate collector which serves as the drying chamber cover. Thermodynamic properties of the working fluid were measured at input and exit points. Energy analysis was carried out to determine their performances. Energy balance equations at the various segments of the dryer are formulated based on the balances in the solar grains dryer. The results show that energy(specific energy consumption) is optimally utilized when the dryer is optimally (not under-loaded or over-loaded with product). The dried product was tested at the end of the drying hours determine its moisture content and suitable for animal consumption and for long storage period. These results are useful for proper loading of solar grain dryer used restaurant waste.