Improving the efficiency of solar drying unit with PCM (Paraffin wax)

Abstract

The renewable energy source like solar is been used in this projects to produce more efficiency in a solar dryer. It is one the most reliable energy source and that does not pollute the environment and green house free emission. In this project work we use sunlight to dry the crops and to preserve the dry fruits we are using sunlight. The motivation of the work is to use a solar dryer with phase change material. With the help of PCM we can able to increase the efficiency of solar dryer because of increasing the contact area of the crops with PCM during off sunlight. In this project work we use indirect solar radiation principle because PCM will absorb the solar radiation and that will be emitted during the night time. A absorber plate is used to absorb the solar radiation. Once after receiving the radiation from the sun that is been transferred to the chamber where the crops are been provided. In that chamber we will be having the PCM box that will be in solid state and once after receiving the solar radiation phase change will be taking place from solid to liquid phase. Once the sun starts to set off the solar radiation will not be available so during that time PCM is used to transfer the heat. The moisture present in the crop is been removed with the help of the heated air. With the help of the above information the crop drying process is been evaluated with the help of calculation.