Modelling and Simulation of Continuous and Intermittent Radio Frequency-Assisted Fluidized Bed Drying of Grains

Atheoretical analysis based on the simultaneous heat and mass transfer is presented for the radio frequency-assisted fluidized bed drying of particulates. Corn was chosen as a test material. The numerical method of lines has been used to solve the governing equations. Two radio frequency heating schemes, continuous and intermittent, were distinguished and tested. Effects of relevant parameters such as electric field strength, frequency, inlet air temperature and intermittency are evaluated and discussed. This model provides a relatively fast and efficient way to simulate dielectric-enhanced fluidized bed drying.