Experimental evaluation of drying of banana using a double-pass solar collector (DPSC) and theoretical analysis using a CFD model
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Date
2020-07-13
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
TAYLOR & FRANCIS
Abstract
Preservation of banana through drying is a recommended method for
improving the shelf life. In this study, an experimental and theoretical evaluation of
a developed forced-convection indirect solar drying system with a double-pass solar
collector (DPSC) was undertaken. Experimentation using banana slices of 4 mm
thickness was carried out. The DPSC achieved an optimal peak outlet temperature of
72°C with a maximum operational efficiency of 72.5%. A computational fluid
dynamic (CFD) model was developed for prediction of the dryer temperature and 3D
airflow distribution within the dryer unit using ANSYS 18.2. The CFD model was
validated using experimental data and good agreement was achieved. The devel
oped dryer demonstrated improved efficiency over similar dryers, and this is attri
butable to the unique arrangement of component parts. Dried banana chips were
evaluated for quality through taste, color and shape and the results indicated good
quality products. This was attributed to the pretreatment of banana chips with
lemon juice prior to drying.
Description
This research article was published by Taylor & Francis in 2020