RADIO FREQUENCY VACUUM DRYING OF WOOD. I. MATHEMATICAL MODEL

Abstract

A one-dimensional mathematical model to describe the transport phenomena during continuous radio frequency/vacuum (RF/V) drying of thick lumber was developed from general conservation equations. When drying at temperatures near the boiling point, as in RF/V drying, the effect of the gas phase pressure gradient on moisture transfer within the solid can be very important. The controlling resistances and transport mechanisms are discussed in detail. In addition, capillary transport in RF/V drying is discussed and its effect is compared with convective drying. The model provides a relatively fast and efficient way to simulate vacuum drying behavior assisted by dielectric heating. As an example, the governing heat and mass transfer equations, including consideration of internal heat generation and the effect of gas phase pressure gradient, are derived and solved in a one-dimensional system using a finite volume method. The effect of changes of the most important parameters on the predictions of the model is also presented.