Analysis on efficiency optimization of tobacco leaf flue-curing process

Tobacco leaf flue-curing process consumes large amounts of energy. Comparing to the traditional heating approach using coal, the heating source like heat pump would be more energy efficient and environmental friendly. Using heat pump for tobacco drying is proposed in this study. A 3D numerical model is established based on the theory of heat and mass transfer in porous medium. Field measurements were conducted in an actual curing barn in Chongqing. The effects of wall insulation performance and circulating air volume were obtained by comparative analyses of the key parameters. The feasibility and energy efficiency were proved by comparative analyses and experimental data. The result can help improve energy efficiency of relevant projects in agriculture baking. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.