Grain dryer temperature optimisation with simulation and a test dryer

Grain drying is one of the most energy consuming processes in crop production in northern countries, and it is often also a bottleneck in the harvest chain. A computer simulation model was developed to understand the drying process better and to optimize the process parameters. Preliminary tests were conducted with the model and results were compared to measurement data from a miniature research dryer. Results indicated that air and energy leaks, which occur in the actual dryer, are difficult to take into account in the model. However, the model manages considerably well in estimating the dryer overall performance, but fails to predict small changes in energy consumption with current parameters.