Experimental Comparation of the Performance of Cabinet Solar Dryer in Natural and Force Convection Condition

Abstract

Solar energy offers an effective and sustainable approach for preserving agricultural products, particularly in regions with high solar availability. The present study experimentally investigated the performance of a cabinet-type solar dryer operating under natural and forced convection modes for drying potato slices. The system was fabricated using locally available materials and tested under actual climatic conditions in Prayagraj, India. Performance evaluation was carried out based on temperature variation, moisture removal, drying rate, and overall drying efficiency. The results indicated that forced convection significantly enhanced the drying process due to improved airflow and heat transfer within the drying chamber. The cabinet temperature reached approximately 75°C under forced convection, resulting in faster moisture removal. The drying efficiency increased to 55% compared to 33% under natural convection. The drying process exhibited an initial rapid moisture removal phase followed by a falling rate period. The findings demonstrate that forced convection solar drying is an efficient and reliable method for agricultural drying without reliance on conventional fuels.