Optimization of Circulation Cross-Flow Dryer by Simulation During Wheat Drying

Domestic wheat production volume in Korea is anticipated to increase, and this requires cost-effective drying and processing. However, current dryers are specifically designed for paddy rice and developing dedicated wheat dryers is not economically viable. Furthermore, due to differences in geographical location, climate, and harvest season compared to other countries, domestic wheat harvested undergoes the drying process using rice dryers. Therefore, we investigated grain dryers that are being distributed domestically. In addition, using the developed drying prediction simulation program, we proposed the main factor that enables drying of domestic wheat using available dryers.

We investigated key factors for wheat processing, such as drying temperature, airflow rate, air velocity, germination, and energy consumption. This was based on the simulation of a circulating cross-flow wheat grain dryer. The functionality of grain dryers available in the domestic market was surveyed.

We ascertained ideal drying conditions with varying dryer capacities in relation to these factors and quantified the relationship between them.

We concluded that it is possible to process wheat in an affordable way using rice dryers if attention is paid to relevant factors. Our data has implications for those seeking to maximize the viability of the wheat industry.