Objective

:To utilize the computer system SolidWorks for the design of indirect forced convection solar dryers.

Materials and Methods

:The computer system SolidWorks (version 2018) was used for the design of indirect forced convection solar dryers. The theoretical-methodological bases concerning the mechanical design and kinetics of heat transference were considered.

Results

:The stated theoretical fundamentals allowed to establish the bases for the design of solar dryers of botanical seeds from pastures and forages. With the utilization of the above-mentioned computer system the technology was designed, and with the tool Flow Simulation the analysis of fluid kinetics and temperatures was carried out. Wind velocity values of 0,25 m/s and higher temperatures than the ambient temperature inside the drying chamber were reached. With the tool a study by finite elements was conducted to evaluate the structural resistance of the prototype through von Mises maximum stress. The resistance and stability of the prototype structure were proven.

Conclusions

:The kinetic model, conceived with the utilization of the software SolidWorks, shows increase of temperature and fall of pressure in the solar dryer designed for drying botanical seeds from pastures and forages.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · English ( pdf ) | Spanish ( pdf )