Finite-element simulation and validation of stepwise drying of bananas

R. Ranjan, Joseph Irudayaraj, J. N. Reddy, A. S. Mujumdar

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A two-dimensional finite-element formulation and solution of a set of transient coupled heat and diffusive moisture transfer equations is presented. The solution procedure developed uses an alpha family of approximation for stepping in time for the solution of the coupled set of equations applied to simulate the stepwise convective drying behavior of banana slices. The model tested was validated with experimental data from different sources for stepwise drying of banana using a heat pump dryer (HPD) as well as continuous batch drying in both Cartesian and cylindrical coordinate systems. The maximum deviation of moisture content between experimental and simulation results was 0.05% wet basis (% w.b.). Good agreement of the simulated results with experimental data for stepwise as well as continuous convective drying of banana samples indicates the validity of the procedure and its incorporation in the optimization of drying processes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)997-1012
Number of pages16
JournalNumerical Heat Transfer; Part A: Applications
Volume45
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 18 2004
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Numerical Analysis
  • Condensed Matter Physics

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