Desain Konseptual Alat Pengering Biji Bijian Tipe Hibrida Skala Industri Rumahan

Abstract

The drying process of grains is a crucial post-harvest stage to maintain quality, extend shelf life, and prevent microorganism growth. However, traditional drying methods that rely on sunlight have several drawbacks, such as weather dependence and long drying times. Therefore, this study aimed to design a hybrid- type grain dryer for small-scale industries, utilizing a combination of solar and electric energy to enhanced drying. This research employed a conceptual design approach using SolidWorks software for model and simulation. The designed dryer consists of an angle iron frame, an absorber to capture solar energy, a burner as an additional heat source, fans for air distribution, and a temperature and humidity control system. Simulation results indicated that the structure was sturdy and effectively distributed heat evenly, thereby improved the drying process efficiency. The implementation of this hybrid dryer was expected to help farmers overcome weather constraints and increased agricultural productivity. Furthermore, this design could be furthered developed for various types of grains by adjusted optimal drying parameters.