Experimental Investigation of a Photovoltaic-Powered Solar Cassava Dryer

Abstract

This communication describes the design and experimental performance evaluation of a photovoltaic (PV)-powered solar drying system suitable for processing of export-grade cassava developed at the National Centre for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The drying system, which is capable of handling about 50 kg of fresh crop per batch, comprises an 8.40 m2 roof-type solar collector; a drying unit with five trays, each with a cross-sectional area of 0.60 m2; and a PV-powered 90 WAC blower. The experience gained with the solar drying system described here indicates that, in essence, the unit is structurally and functionally operative. The experimental results suggest that, even under unfavorable weather conditions, the unit is able to produce good quality products. Although the active dryer is more expensive than a passive drying system of comparable capacity, it is nonetheless suitable for application in rural, off-grid agricultural settlements in Nigeria.