Mathematical Modeling of a Cross Flow Conveyor Belt Dryer

The drying of solids in a cross flow conveyor belt dryer (continuous operation system), in whichparticles (thin-layer) move in a wire net conveyor, was theoretically studied. a mathematicalmodeling that considers the influence of bed porosity and transient terms in the drying processwas developed and the changes in bed porosity and product density with the moisture content ofseeds have been considered. also, to have a more accurate model, some changes have been madeto the specific surface of the seed. the finite volume method was used to solve, numerically, thegoverning conservation equations. the results of the moisture content of the material (yellowcorn kernel), residence time and conveyor length are presented and analyzed in order to modifythe model, according to bed porosity, product density and the specific surface changes of theseed. this model can predict humidity ratio, the temperature of air, moisture content and thetemperature of the material throughout the drying process.