Analysis of Grain Mass Flow Experiments in a Mixed-flow Dryer

In Central Europe approximately 30% of the grain must be dried after harvest. The most popular continuous crop dryers are mixed-flow dryers. Although this type of dryer is widely used it is still necessary to optimize many segment processes during the drying. For example there are big differences in the vertical grain particle velocity causing differences in the residence time. The aim of the work was to carry out experiments for the grain mass flow measurements in a semi technical dryer. Based on the results a mathematical and 3D computer model for the grain mass flow will be developed in the future enabling improvements in the prediction of the drying process which does not form part of present study. Copyright © 2008 IFAC