Application of infrared radiation in linseed drying

Abstract

The issues of the technological process of linseed drying are discussed. The main problems arising in the process of seed drying are identified. The research goal and objectives are formulated. The research target and methods are determined. The studies were conducted to find the moisture characteristics of the product under study. A graph of the kinetics of linseed drying was obtained which allowed determining the critical points of the process. The initial moisture content of linseeds was determined which was equal to 75%. Also, after drying, the moisture content of the dry product was determined which was equal to 7% and met the requirements of the GOST (standard) for linseeds. The drying time of the product was determined which was 14 hours. The spectral characteristics of the product were found. A graph of the spectral characteristics of linseeds was obtained using a special spectrometer device. In this graph, the extremum points were determined which were in the operating wavelength range of the film electric heater amounting to 8-10 µm. The temperature was determined at an extreme that was in the operating range of the radiator. The wavelength at this point was equal to 8580 nm. According to the Wien’s displacement law, this wavelength corresponded to 65°C. A drying plant of the transport cascade type was developed. The installation consists of 7 tiers. Each tier is equipped with electric film heaters and a conveyor belt where the product is located. Temperature sensors allow controlling the temperature throughout the seed drying process. Experiments on linseed drying were carried out on the developed installation. The energy consumption of the linseed drying was determined which amounted to 19.6 kW*h kg.