Design and Optimization of Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger (STHE) in Continuous Flow Multigrain Dryer Fueled by Biomass Using CFD

Efficiency is a crucial factor in grain drying because it determines the quality and shelf life of the dried grains produced. Dryer technology in industrial scale that is widely used is continuous flow multigrain dryer. The use of biomass as the main fuel source can reduce dependence on fossil energy while utilizing agricultural waste, especially in remote areas. This research focuses on the design and optimization of Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger (STHE) because it is one of the main components in controlling the drying water temperature. Optimization is done using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) by considering thermal efficiency, economy and ease of manufacturing. The process parameters analysed were drying air outlet temperature, heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop. The most optimal design was obtained for the STHE with a length of 3.2 m, baffle cut ratio of 0.3, heat transfer rate of 419.46 kW, drying air outlet temperature of 80.86^oC, and pressure drop of 39.74 kPa. The design can meet the drying air demand of a 20-ton capacity continuous flow multigrain dryer system with biomass fuel. The design can meet the drying water needs of a continuous flow multigrain dryer system with a capacity of 20 tons with biomass fuel. © 2025, Penerbit Akademia Baru. All rights reserved.