Performance of a solar-ambient hybrid source heat pump drier for copra drying under hot-humid weather conditions

摘要

This paper communicates the energy performance of a solar-ambient hybrid source heat pump drier (SAHSHPD) for copra drying under hot-humid weather conditions. The standard energy performance parameters such as coefficient of performance (COP), condenser heat capacity (O_c) and specific moisture extraction rate (SMER) were evaluated. The results showed that COP of a SAHSHPD was varied between 2.31 and 2.77 with an average value of 2.54. The condenser heating capacity was varied between 2900 W and 3750 W with an average value of 3290 W. The SMER was calculated as 0.79 kg/kWh. The moisture content (on wet basis) of the copra was reduced from about 52% to about 92% and 9.8% in 40 h for trays at bottom and top, respectively. The quality of copra obtained in a SAHSHPD was found to be higher compared to other drying methods.