The modelling of a domestic tumbler dryer

The characteristics of a small domestic tumbler dryer have been investigate d using: performance tests and a computer model of the dryer. This model, w hich was partially developed using the tests results, encompasses all of th e energy and mass transfer routes within the complete dryer. The tests demo nstrated that the mass and energy transport mechanisms within the dryer dru m are not well defined, and a key feature of the model is the simplified eq uations used to represent these flows. There is a strong correlation betwee n the results from the performance tests and the results predicted by the c omputer model. The performance test results show that the dryer examined in this study ope rates at much higher efficiencies than those previously reported. The dryer s in the earlier studies were slightly larger and operated with larger air flow rates and higher energy inputs. The drying process generates lint, and the model has been used to demonstra te the effects which the localised accumulation of lint in a trap has on th e dryer's performance. Other operational effects investigated using the mod el include the influence of fabric type on the performance of the dryer, th e sensitivity of the dryer performance to operating conditions and the poss ibility of energy recovery from the exhaust stream by recirculating part of the stream through the dryer, (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights re served.