Improving Velocity and Temperature Uniformity in Multi-sample Drying Using CFD Integrated Drying Model

Drying involves the concurrent transfer of heat, mass, and momentum. Temperature, concentration, and velocity gradients serve as the driving factors for heat, mass, and momentum transfer, respectively. Researchers have recently endeavoured to develop computational models that integrate Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) into the drying process. However, these models were specifically designed for convective drying of individual samples and did not account for the effects of non-uniformity in process parameters, such as air velocity and temperature, when drying multiple samples simultaneously. In this research, we have conducted simulations of a 2D and 3D CFD integrated drying model for multiple samples. Our aim was to assess the uniformity of air velocity, sample temperature, and moisture content at various positions and arrangements of the samples in the drying chamber. Increasing the air velocity had a significant impact on moisture removal and maintaining consistent temperatures among the samples. Furthermore, the position of the samples has an obvious influence on the drying rate. For instance, the sample closest to hot air inlet experiencing faster moisture loss compared to those positioned towards the air exit. Additionally, there was noticeable non-uniformity in air velocity across the drying chamber and sample temperature, as indicated by the Coefficient of Variation (COV). These findings provide valuable insights to optimize drying conditions for improved energy efficiency and reduced quality degradation.