The study discussed in the text focuses on the drying kinetics of Nagpur orange fruit in a hot-air electrical dryer. Orange fruit is highly perishable and requires immediate consumption or processing post-harvest, which makes dehydration a practical preservation method. The research explores the thin layer drying characteristics of orange fruit under different conditions such as air temperatures, relative humidity, and air velocities at varying moisture contents. The study uses different thin layer models to compare theoretical predictions with experimental findings. Understanding drying kinetics is crucial for determining precise drying times and optimal air flow velocities corresponding to different moisture levels. The drying operation is executed at different velocities and temperatures to determine the impact of each variable on drying kinetics. The results show that drying temperature has a significant influence on moisture removal, whereas velocity has the least impact. The drying rate increases with increasing temperature and diminishes over time. The statistical correlation of experimental data through drying characteristic curve plotting reveals that Wang and Singh’s model outperforms others in elucidating the drying behavior of Nagpur orange fruit. Overall, this comprehensive analysis enhances our understanding of the intricate interplay between drying parameters and contributes valuable insights for optimal drying conditions and efficient preservation of Nagpur orange fruit. The study concludes that understanding drying kinetics is essential for determining precise drying times and optimal air flow velocities that could help in efficient preservation of the fruit.
Author(s) Details:
Prashant M. Rewatkar,
Kinkar Institute of Technology, Seloo, Wardha, India.
Sandip S. Jawre,
Shri Shankar Prasad Agnihotri College of Engineering, Wardha, India.
Sanket R. Choudhari,
Kinkar Institute of Technology, Seloo, Wardha, India.