Research Methodology for Microwave-Convective Processing of Grain

Abstract

Studying the effect of microwave fields on the intensification of heat and moisture exchange processes in a granular layer is a rather complicated task, which cannot be effectively solved without an adequate research methodology. In presented materials, a system of principles and approaches for studying processes of microwave-convective grain treatment has been discussed. Based on the explicitly defined process target, functional-physical analysis has been performed that made it possible to specify the most essential factors of process. Morphological analysis of processes shall be performed in several stages. At each stage, targets of process have to be set by excluding combinations of factors that have no reason to be considered at this particular stage of process development. Application of mathematical simulation methods is advisable for selection of optimal options.

On the Possibility of Using Renewable Energy Sources for Operation of Microwave Convective Drying of Grain

“…Sources of solar, wind energy, biogas plants can be considered as sources of renewable energy, typical for agricultural enterprises and the regions in which they are located [2,4]. However, in the case of wind power plants, an additional stage of preconversion of electrical energy into thermal energy would be required to provide preparation of the drying agent, which could negatively affect the final energy balance.…”

“…However, several processes require substantial energy inputs to process the harvested crops. One of the obligatory and, at the same time, energy-intensive processes is drying of grain to bring it to condition moisture [2][3][4]. As one of the main technological stages of grain processing, drying is primarily characteristic of regions characterized by unsatisfactory weather conditions.…”

“…In some regions, grain drying facilities are not required every year, but only once every 2-3 years. At the same time, the energy intensity of drying cereals is very high and amounts to 3.5-14 MJ for evaporation of one kilogram of moisture [4,5]. It should be taken into account that many developers such as Petkus (Germany), Cimbria (Denmark), Dozagrant (RF), AVG (RF), Stela Laxhuber GMBH (Germany), Tornum (Sweden), Altinbilek (Turkey), and some others provide data only on heat carrier flow rate for drying or indicate basic capacity and do not provide data for detailed analysis of energy intensity of drying.…”

Studying of the dielectric loss factor of grain by indirect method

“…To provide the required parameters applicable to the drying equipment, it is necessary to provide uniform heating of the processed material by the volume of the pipeline. Modern means of computer modelling allow for prototyping and visual representation of the treatment area of the material [5][6][7]. For modelling and further development prior to con-ducting mathematical modelling and sample making equipment, it is necessary to investigate the properties of crops.…”

Control System of an Experimental Intallation for Electrophysical Effects on Grain

“…могут применяться для предпосевной обработки, интенсификации тепло-массопереноса, микронизации, повышению кормовой ценности подготовки к скармливанию, и т.д. [2][3][4][5][6][7].…”