Performance Analysis of Mixed-Mode Solar Dryer for Drying Vegetables

Abstract

This work presents the design, fabrication and performance analysis of mixed-mode solar dryer for vegetables. In the dryer, the heated air from a separate solar collector will pass through a grain bed and at the same time, the drying cabinet absorbs solar energy directly through the transparent walls and roof. The main components of the dryer are the solar collector (air heated), the drying, cabinets, drying trays. The results obtained during the analysis period shown that dryer and the solar collector was higher than the average ambient temperature during most hours of the day light. The rate of drying and efficiency of the system were found to be 0.75kg/h and 62.5% respectively. These, values obtained for the dryer exhibited sufficient ability to dry vegetables products to a safe moisture level and simultaneously ensured a superior quality of dry product.