Rancang Bangun Pengering Cabai Tenaga Surya Tipe Kolektor Pelat Datar Sistem Tertutup Dengan Kontrol Kelembapan Menggunakan Desikan Kapasitas 2 Kg

Abstract

This study aims to design and build a solar-powered chili dryer using a flat plate collector type with a closed system and humidity control, having a capacity of 2 kg. The dryer utilizes solar radiation absorbed by a dark-colored collector plate as the main heat source to dry chili peppers inside a closed chamber protected from dust and microorganism contamination. The humidity control system employs liquid CaCl2 desiccant. The dryer design includes insulation to minimize heat loss and a transparent cover to maximize solar radiation penetration. The dryer chamber is designed to maintain a temperature above ambient temperature and is capable of significantly reducing relative humidity, thereby accelerating the chili drying process with a final moisture content that meets storage standards. The collector plate dimensions are 1.6 meters by 1 meter, with a 2.2 cm thick rockwool insulation layer. The drying rack measures 54 cm by 54 cm and consists of two levels, while the drying chamber dimensions are 92 cm by 92 cm by 92 cm. With a capacity of 2 kg, this dryer is expected to provide an efficient and hygienic solution for small to medium-scale chili drying.