Innovative Design and Performance Evaluation of A Dual-Heated Rotary Cage-Tray System Fish Dryer for Enhanced Preservation
Abstract
Fish, a nutrient-rich yet highly perishable food due to its ~80% moisture content, requires effective preservation to ensure safety, quality, and extended shelf life. Conventional drying systems often suffer from inconsistent heat supply and labor-intensive product handling, limiting their efficiency. This study presents the development and performance evaluation of a novel rotary cage-tray system fish dryer designed to address these challenges. The dryer, equipped with four cage-tray compartments; each capable of handling 2.5 kg of catfish (Clarias gariepinus), integrates dual heat sources (charcoal-wood and gas) to provide steady thermal input and a mechanized turning mechanism to eliminate manual contact with the products been dried. Performance was assessed under unloaded and loaded conditions to determine (a) temperature distribution across alternative (charcoal or gas) and combined heat source operations, and (b) optimal turning intervals for the cage-tray system. Results indicate that a three-quarter charcoal pot load and gas valve settings at points 2 or 3 ensure uniform heat distribution; while turning intervals of 40 minutes (alternative sources) and 30 minutes (combined sources) gave optimum drying without compromising product integrity. Temperature profiles revealed minimal fluctuations (<5°C) with combined sources, enhancing drying consistency. The dryer achieved a drying rate of 0.12–0.15 kg/hr and an efficiency of 68–72%, outperforming traditional dryers reliant on single energy inputs. These findings demonstrate the system’s potential to revolutionize fish preservation in resource-limited settings, offering a scalable, low-contact solution for sustained quality and safety. Future iterations could incorporate transparent panels for real-time monitoring, further refining operational control.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Osigbhemhe, George Osi, Atemoagbo, Oyarekhua Precious, Irtwang, Simon V, Itodo, Isaac Nathaniel "Innovative Design and Performance Evaluation of A Dual-Heated Rotary Cage-Tray System Fish Dryer for Enhanced Preservation" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 4 2025 Page 1736-1744 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I4-1711612-8331
IEEE:
Osigbhemhe, George Osi, Atemoagbo, Oyarekhua Precious, Irtwang, Simon V, Itodo, Isaac Nathaniel
"Innovative Design and Performance Evaluation of A Dual-Heated Rotary Cage-Tray System Fish Dryer for Enhanced Preservation" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(4) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I4-1711612-8331
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