Solar, Biomass and Hybrid Dryers - BioEnergy Discussion Lists

Table 10.2: Technical specifications of the UTCSI. No. Parameter Specifications1. Collector material Galvanised Iron (GI)2. Collector area 6.20 m 2 (2.44 m x 1.27 m)3. Perforation pitch 14.5 mm4. Perforation diameter 1.6 mm5. Porosity 1.1%6. Plenum depth 0.1 m7. Blower capacity 140 WDrying chamberThe drying chamber contains three shelves and air ducts which introduce hot airfrom the solar collector and the biomass furnace into the chamber at several levels. Achimney installed at the top of the chamber facilitates air circulation through thechamber.Biomass stoveFigure 10.3: Drying chamber of the hybrid dryerThe biomass gasifier stove design was adapted from a cross-draft gasifier stovedeveloped by AIT. The exhaust gas from the burner is channeled through a shell andtube type heat exchanger, which heats up the drying air. The optimal values ofdesign parameters such as the plenum depth of the solar collector, airflow rate,perforation pitch, and collector area were established through experiments. All thematerials used for the fabrication of the dryer were readily available in the localmarket. Simple design ensured that local technicians and craftsmen could carry outthe fabrication. The total cost of the dryer is estimated at US$930.52