Grain Drying Simulation in a GT-380 Dryer using Energy Recovered from ICE Exhaust

Abstract

This research primarily addresses the energy problem as experienced by farmers who use the GT 380 recirculating batch dryer for maize grain drying. The study used a 4.7 hp (3.5 kW) single cylinder, fourstroke, multi-fuel engine which was operated on diesel and biodiesel fuels. The objective of the study was to simulate the amount of maize grain that could be dried with recovered energy at various engine speeds and loads. For the purposes of estimating the amount of maize grain that could be dried with the recovered energy, specifications of the GT 380 recirculating batch dryer were used. The dryer had a rated capacity of 1900 kg/h. Determination of mass balances for dry matter and water were done using grain drying models. The main contribution of this study, in addition to the possibility of avoiding contact with dangerous propane, is in the possible minimization of energy costs by using less propane or none through the utilization of the recovered energy from exhaust gases. Through simulation, about 600 grams per hour and 700 grams per hour of maize grain could be dried with the recovered energy when the engine was operated on diesel and biodiesel respectively.