Longitudinal pulsed electric field equipment for tobacco leaves: Methodology for calculating parameters for an electric circuit

Abstract

Drying of tobacco leaves and stems is a high energy intensive process. Pulsed electric field treatment can be applied to decrease significant energy requirements. An analysis of the electrical circuits of the equipment for pulsed electric field treatment of plants has been accomplished and an electric circuit for longitudinal PEF equipment to treat tobacco leaves and stems with a buffer capacitor and a rectifier for high voltage has been proposed. A method for determination of the electric circuit parameters and for power supply to the equipment is given. Results of the calculation of the two electrical circuits are also presented.