Experimental Study and Numerical Optimal Design of A Greenhouse Drying System for Woodcraft

The utilization of a greenhouse to produce woodcrafts appears to be an ecologically sustainable energy solution. The repurposing of wood refuse into crafts has the potential to enhance its added value. The estimation of drying time is required to monitor the state of woodcraft products. Elevated temperatures cause woodcraft products to fracture, whereas high humidity within the greenhouse is a significant contributor to fungal growth. The CFD results were compared to experimental data collected over 48 hours in Gunung Kidul Regency, Indonesia. This simulation is based on a 3D viscous realizable k-ε model with active energy and species transport. The simulation meets expectations for estimating temperature, solar flux, and heater power requirements at night. The greenhouse's drying temperature during daytime is 46.3°C, as determined by the CFD results, and the solar irradiance is 616 W/m². The heater power requirement at night is 992 W. Temperature gradient and relative humidity results suggest a gradual and continuous thermal and evaporation process. The woodcraft products' ultimate moisture content ranges from 6.2% to 9%, with the fastest-drying products situated on the upper racks.