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Heat and water transfer in a rotating drum containing solid substrate particles
M A I Schutyser1, F J Weber, W J Briels
1Wageningen Centre for Food Sciences, Wageningen, The Netherlands. maarten.schutyser@wur.nl
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|March 26, 2003
Summary
A discrete particle model simulates heat and moisture transfer in solid-state fermentation (SSF) drums. The model accurately predicts temperature and moisture distribution, aiding process optimization for granular media.
Area of Science:
- Biochemical Engineering
- Particle Technology
Background:
- Solid-state fermentation (SSF) requires precise control of heat and moisture for optimal microbial activity.
- Previous discrete particle models simulated mixing but lacked heat and moisture transfer capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To extend a discrete particle model to include heat and moisture transfer for SSF simulations.
- To investigate the impact of process parameters on heat and moisture distribution in granular media.
Main Methods:
- Experimental determination of interparticle heat transfer coefficients.
- Incorporation of heat transfer via interparticle contacts.
- Modeling of intraparticle water absorption and interparticle free water transfer.
- Experimental study of moisture profiles using a fluorescent tracer.
Main Results:
- The extended model accurately predicts heat transfer and temperature gradients in wheat grain beds.
- The model captures moisture profile development during spraying and mixing.
- Optimum water distribution is achieved through rapid mixing or a combination of short spraying and subsequent mixing.
Conclusions:
- The enhanced discrete particle model is a powerful predictive tool for SSF processes.
- The model can inform operating strategies for design and scale-up of granular media processes.
- Understanding heat and moisture dynamics is crucial for efficient SSF operation.
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