Agriculture
January 25, 2024
SunWorks Solar Food Dryer
Read SolutionImplemented by
SunWorks
Updated on January 25, 2024
·Created on June 11, 2017
The SAECSA Solar Food Dryer is a solar powered drying chamber that can be used to dry and preserve fruits, vegetables and grains.
The SAECSA Solar Food Dryer is a solar-powered drying chamber that can be used to dry and preserve fruits, vegetables and grains. It has 8 racks where food can be placed with a maximum capacity of 10 kgs per batch.
Target SDGs
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
Market Suggested Retail Price
$3,821.94
Target Users (Target Impact Group)
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
Distributors / Implementing Organizations
SAECSA
Competitive Landscape
Direct competitors include Raheja Solar Dryer, Chimney Solar Dryer, Solar Conduction Dryer, Solar Drier - Model SD 22-3, and SunWorks Solar Food Dryer.
Manufacturing/Building Method
SAECSA have a photovoltaic module production line in Mexico with a production capacity of 60,000 modules per year. The Solar Food Hydrator is made-to-order and can be customised by contacting the manufacturer.
Intellectural Property Type
Patent
User Provision Model
Users can request a quote directly from the manufacturer.
Distributions to Date Status
Since commercialization in 2013, the company has sold 900 basic solar food dryers. Interview with representative
Drying capacity (lbs/m³)
31.75 lbs/m³
Drying duration (hr)
6-8 hr
Load capacity (m³)
0.69 m³
Operating temperature range (°C)
Up to 70 °C
Temperature control
No
Number of trays
8
Materials of construction
Stainless steel 304 food grade
Design Specifications
The dryer has a solar collector, metal frame, and a chamber to place the food on racks. It requires an area of 11 m2 for installation. The main source of energy is sunlight (some food dryers have a gas backup system) which is captured by the 1.3 m2 collector and transmitted to the drying chamber through a coil which contains 60% water and 40% anti-freeze. The water vapor from the product (fruits, vegetables, grains, etc.) builds up internal pressure in the chamber which is regulated through a valve to warm up the pulp initially. The stainless steel chamber has a 10 kg to 20 kg daily drying capacity, a metal support, exhaust valve, and a thermostat.
Technical Support
Provided by the manufacturer, through specialized technicians. Interview with representative
Replacement Components
SAECSA offers replacement components as part of their service. Interview with representative
Lifecycle
According to the manufacturer the product lasts between 15 to 20 years. They offer a 5 year warranty on the product. Interview with manufacturer
Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters
The company aims to reduce, replace or eliminate the use of conventional generators by offering a more affordable, eco-friendly alternative.
Vetted Performance Status
Testing performed by the manufacturer determined a power consumption of 40 W, however, no third-party testing has been completed.
Safety
Potential hazards related to the operation of this product include accidental burning when handling hot trays.
Complementary Technical Systems
The company offers courses on solar thermal energy for clients to understand better how the systems work. Interview with manufacturer
Academic Research and References
None
Compliance with regulations
The chamber is made of 304 stainless steel, suitable for food applications.
Other Information
Other solar-powered products can be found on SAECSA's website. This video shows the Basic Plus model. There are two types of solar food dryer: the basic unit costs ~2990 USD; the model that includes a backup gas system (to assist on cloudy days) costs ~3822 USD.Interview with representative on 6/13/2017 Production line in Mexico Company Contact
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