Cashew Kernel Drying with Rotating Tray Dryer

Abstract

The objective of this research is to investigate a suitable condition for drying cashew kernel with rotating tray dryer. Criterion used to consider are as follows: quality of product after drying, drying time and specific energy consumption. Experimental results showed that the drying time decreased when drying air temperature increased. The appropriate drying condition is at drying air temperature of 90°C, recycled air fraction of 0.45 and specific air flow rate of 70 kg dry air/h-kg dry cashew kernel (air velocity 0.07 m/s). The product quality after drying is acceptable while drying time is low. The specific energy consumption is 68.22 MJ/kg water evap. or 6.85 MJ/kg cashew kernel. Drying cost analysis is reported at 260 baht/kg water evap. or 26.13 bath/kg cashew kernel.