Analysis of heat and mass transfer during combined microwave-convective spouted-bed drying

Heat and mass transfer phenomena during the combined microwave-convective batch spouted bed drying are analyzed. Wheat was chosen as a test material. The governing equations, including consideration of internal heat generation and thermodiffusion are formulated and solved using the numerical method of lines. The model allowed variable material transport and dielectric properties. The parameters investigated include electric field strength, electromagnetic field frequency, inlet air temperature, and superficial air velocity. Representative drying and temperature curves as well as moisture and temperature profiles are presented and discussed.