Modeling a Tomato Dehydration Process using Geothermal Energy

Abstract

A tomato dehydration unit has been operating since 2001 in N. Erasmio, 25 km south of the city of Xanthi (Thrace), and produces “sun-dried” tomatoes. The unit uses low-cost geothermal water to heat atmospheric air to 55-58°C through finned-tube air heater coils. This work deals with the modeling of a tomato drying process in a semi-continuous tunnel drier using low-enthalpy geothermal energy. The modeling procedure consists of two stages: The first stage refers to the modeling of a single tomato piece, whereas the second stage is concerned with the modeling of the procedure of air drying of tomatoes by moving the trays in a tunnel at batches. The model can be used for the design and optimization of the continuous drying process existing in N. Erasmio and elsewhere.