Performance evaluation of a flatbed maize dryer with a biomass heat source

The technical performance of a 3-tonne capacity flatbed grain dryer was assessed based on its drying rate and efficiency. In addition, the quality maize grains dried in system investigated through stress-crack analysis germination test. Maize at an initial moisture content 18.4% ± 0.1% (wb) were to safe 13.3% 0.2% 5 hours, resulting 1.02%/h efficiency 67.35%. average temperature observed plenum (55.8°C±1.5°C) about twice higher than ambient during period. use did not have any adverse effect viability with index 75 percentage 90%. This study demonstrated using biomass-assisted for can reduce post-harvest losses smallholder level. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 11(2): 37-41, Dec 2021