Prof. B. K Chakravarthy
Research and Projects

 

Solar Dryer

Agriculture is one of the main occupation in India. Farmer being the core member of the occupation, should get maximum benefit from the business. In economics of agriculture , in order to give farmer a bargaining option , drying ( dehydrating ) of fruit , vegetable, spices can be a attractive solution. Solar energy is popular renewable energy source. It traditionally used in agriculture. Using new materials, process techniques use of the solar energy can be utilized. Designing Natural convection solar dryer is an attempt towards the utilization of solar energy in effective may and to get monetary returns in agricultural domain.

Product features

  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to transport
  • Considers Farmer work  habits
  • Adjusts according to the latitude for maximum efficiency
  • Air inlet
  • Air heating
  • Thermal/ heat absorber
  • Reduction in heat loss by surface treatments
  • Heat insulated air collecting chamber
  • drying chamber
  • Trays
  • Humidity and thermal sensors( thermometer, hygrometer etc)
  • air vents and Exhaust fan with auto on-off
  • Fan regulator
  • vents for humid/ cooled air
  • Increase efficiency through mirrors/ other treatments
  • Multiple absorbing panels to make cost effective
  • Modular design
  • Ease of transportation
  • Ease of use
  • New materials
  • Arrangements of doors
  • options in reflectors: mirror, coated metal reflector,
  • Specifications
    • Absorber area: 1.5 m2
    • Drying capacity: 10 kg per day*
    • 4 drying trays
    • Weight( 25kg for absorber + 25 kg for dryer)
   
Value' generated by the product  
   
  • Financial leverage to farmer by,
  • Faster drying
  • Better quality
  • Use of dryer for agro- processes like seed drying
  • Longer storage time
  • Use of Green energy