On-Farm Rice Drying Energy Use

AN on-farm rice drying facility in southwest Louisiana was monitored for six years to determine the total energy used in 63 rice drying tests. Gas and electric meters were installed on four 8.23 m diameter bins with 11.2 kW centrifugal fans and natural gas burners. About 90% of the total energy was required in heating the ambient air to 38°C during drying. No adverse effect on rice quality was observed at this drying temperature.