Energy saving grain drying method

Abstract

The article describes a new energy saving method when drying grain. A grain drying technology while changing the air flow blown through grain has not been investigated in Lithuania. The idea of the method is that when moisture release from grain decreases, air discharge going through the grain is reduced as well. “Roland” variety of barley with 25 % and 30 % moisture content was used in the trial. It was dried with a changeable air discharge in order to maintain absorption qualities. The grain is started to be dried and the air flow is reduced in the process of drying as relative moisture content of passing through air decreases. It has been established that the optimum initial air discharge is 800 m3/(t•h). During grain drying air discharge is reduced and it can be described by equation , R2 = 0.8088. A scheme of designed and manufactured trial device is presented. Intensity of air discharge has been established. Dynamics of moisture absorption in a layer of dried grain have been established.