Finite element modelling of cassava flash drying in a vertically upward pneumatic conveying dryer

Authors

  • O. O. Otuu Scientific Equipment Development Institute Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria
  • Sam N.Omenyi Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
  • Solomon Nwigbo Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Keywords:

cassava cultivar, flash dryer, TMe 419, finite element

Abstract

A mathematical model for vertically upward pneumatic conveying drying of cassava cultivar TMe 419 was developed and solved using Finite Element approach. The work was based on two-fluid analysis and it used an iterative method to predict the gas phase variables along the flash tube while considering the influence of material on the flow stream. The gas phase variables were generated by a program coded with Comsol Script while the drying variables for a representative cassava particle were determined by finite element method implemented on Comsol Multiphysics Platform. The simulation predicted the state of the moisture along the tube under different conditions thereby providing a tool for research and design of vertical upward conveying dryers.

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Published

2013-03-01

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 1 (2013): Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Section

Articles