Analysis of Solar Heat Pipe by Optimizing Volumetric Fluid Fill using Fluent

Drying of products obtained from plants is an important step in converting seed and other products into usable forms. Currently conventional methods such as drying using woods are in vogue. This paper aims to investigate the use of solar energy for drying cardamom in place of conventional drying methods. The solar heat pipe, a main component of the dryer is designed and analysed for its performance using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Based on the performance so obtained, simulations were carried out to improve the thermal efficiency and optimize the volumetrically fluid fill in the solar heat pipe. The results of the study indicate that solar heat pipe can effectively be used for drying and will result in saving of firewood and oil. Also it can save environment from pollution and greenhouse gases.