Experimental testing of a new solar dryer
Articles > Article ยท 1994
Authors: Cigdem Tiris, Necdet Ozbalta, Mustafa Tiris, Ibrahim Dincer
International Journal of Energy Research, International, 1994, vol 18, pp 483-491
Summary
Drying of agricultural products is an energy-intensive operation. High prices and shortages in fossil fuels increase the emphasis on using solar energy as an alternative energy source, especially in developing countries. In this respect, a new solar dryer, which consisted of a solar air heater and a drying chamber, was developed and used for drying various fruits and vegetables, i.e., sultana grapes, green beans, sweet peppers and chilli peppers and was successfully tested. In order to make a comparison, the traditional sun-drying experiments were employed. Results showed that the solar dryer reduced the drying time significantly and prevented mass losses, and essentially provided better product quality.