Project
Title
Demonstrationsprojekt Arzneipflanzen (KAMEL); Verbundvorhaben: Optimierung von Trocknungsverfahren für Arznei- und Gewürzpflanzen hinsichtlich Energieeinsatz, Wirtschaftlichkeit und Produktqualität; Teilvorhaben 1: Untersuchungen zur Optimierung einer Flächentrocknungsanlage.
Acronym
KAMEL
Start
02.07.2007
End
30.11.2010
Coordinating Institute
Leibniz-Institut für Agrartechnik und Bioökonomie e.V. (ATB)
Coordinator
Contact
Partner
Agrarprodukte Ludwigshof e.G.
Universität Hohenheim
Summary
A new process designed for fixed bed drying of medicinal and spice plants was developed where heat pumps are combined with conventional air heating by natural gas or fuel oil. Industrial application was realized in cooperation with a large agricultural company in Thuringia. In order to further optimize the process, theoretical and experimental investigations, measurements, simulations regarding distribution of air as well as quality analyses of chamomile, lemon balm, and valerian were carried out. The contents of ingredients were checked at random and found to be in compliance with quality requirements. During the heat pump stage, energy efficiency of the combined drying process can considerably be improved by internal heat recovery. Accordingly, an experimental dryer was constructed on a semi-technical scale and operated with various products. In the course of drying, increasing relative energy savings were proven in detail at the example of chamomile flowers. For the drying stage with conventional air heating, a principle of control was developed for the partial air recirculation which is optimized in terms of energy. The current condition of the dryer outlet air as well as fluctuating ambient air conditions can be taken into account. The underlying concept of the critical normalized drying potential of the dryer outlet air may be applied to all batch-type drying processes at any climatic conditions. At the drying plant examined, the energy costs were reduced by more than 30 %. Further plant-specific and control-oriented optimization measures are possible. Heat pump drying including internal heat recovery and waste heat utilization of combined heat and power plants allows for primary energy savings of up to 50 %. The required investment costs amortize within a few years, particularly if production is increased.
Funding
Bundesministerium für Ernährung, Landwirtschaft und Verbraucherschutz (BMELV)
Funding agency
Fachagentur Nachwachsende Rohstoffe e.V. (FNR)
Grant agreement number
22006107
Funding framework
Nachwachsende Rohstoffe