Volume : 2, Issue : 8, August - 2013

Development and Performance Evaluation of a Solar Assisted Hybrid Dryer for Cassava Chips

Onipede E. A, Agbetoye L. A. S

Abstract :

A solar assisted hyid dryer was designed, faicated and evaluated for performance. The major components of the dryer include the drying unit, the solar collector, the ducting unit, the auxiliary heating unit, solar panel unit and the frame. The performance evaluation of the dryer was carried out to investigate the effect of drying temperatures (500C, 550C, 600C, 650C & 700C), airflow rates (0.033 m3/s, 0.038 m3/s & 0.044 m3/s) and shapes (rectangular and square) of fresh cassava chips at 62% moisture content (w.b) on drying rate. Data from the test were subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used to compare the values. Results show that drying temperature, airflow rate and shape of cassava chip had significant effect on drying rate of chips at 1% level of significance. Drying rate increases as drying temperature and airflow rate increases but decreases as drying time increases.