Performance evaluation of modified STR dryer

The main objective of this study was to improve the design of an existing STR crop dryer with a view to improve its drying efficiency, reduce the drying time and produce hygienic and quality dried wheat and maize. Modifications were made on the design of the existing dryer by installing a temperature regulation mechanism and a high volumetric capacity centrifugal fan to blow hot air from the heat supply unit to the drying chamber. The dryer consisted of two perforated concentric cylinders with grains inside the annular space. Air was passed from the inner cylinder through walls with bottom and top closed to dry the grains inside the annular space. Experiments were conducted on modified STR dryer with 60 0C drying air for wheat and maize at various levels of initial moisture content. It was seen that the modified STR dryers was able to remove moisture at the rate of 2.15 to 2.66% (w.b) per hour for wheat crop and at the rate of 2.30 to 2.85% (w.b) per hour for Maize crop.