New practical method for evaluation of a conventional flat plate continuous pistachio dryer

Testing a dryer is necessary to evaluate its absolute and comparative performance with other dryers. A conventional flat plate continuous pistachio dryer was tested by a new practical method of mass and energy equilibrium. Results showed that the average power consumption and heat loss in three tests are 62.13 and 18.99 kW, respectively. The ratio of heat loss on power consumption showed that the efficiency of practical pistachios flat plate dryer is about 69.4%.

► Evaluation of a conventional flat plate continuous pistachio dryer with a new feasible method.
► Using thermophysical properties of air and matter.
► This manner could be utilized in similar dryer for other agricultural products.
► Method shows the heat loss and power separately.