Minimizing fossil fuel energy in corn drying systems.

ABSTRACT THE effect of heat source, dryer design and operation on fossil fuel requirements for corn drying with cross-flow and in-bin dryers is analyzed. Equations and parameters used in the analysis are presented, including a definition of drying (fuel) efficiency based on fossil fuel utilized. Of the systems examined, the corn cob fueled heating system has the highest efficiencies for both low and high temperature drying. Operating conditions to maximize drying system efficiency are presented in terms of grain depth, fan power and temperature rises. Bed depth of 1.0 to 3.0 m are generally the most energy effi-cient. Optimum drying temperatures are a function of fan power and always occur near the extremes (either high or low) of the temperature range.