Aerodynamic properties of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) seeds

Abstract

Aerodynamic properties of agricultural materials are the physical properties considering the reaction of agricultural material piles or seeds against airflow. The airflow resistance of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) seed piles was experimentally determined and mathematically modeled for two different moisture contents (11.4 % and 25.8% w.b.) for the superficial air velocities ranging from 0.0225 to 1.395 m3·m-2·s-1. Modified Shedd’s equation and Hukill-Ives equation can be interchangeably used to design aeration systems for the storage and drying bins of faba bean seeds. The terminal velocity values are 11.68 and 12.87 m·s-1 for the moisture contents of 11.4% and 25.8% (w.b.), respectively. The drag coefficient values are 1.02 and 0.88 for the moisture contents of 11.4% and 25.8% (w.b.), respectively. Moisture content increased terminal velocity but decreased drag coefficient.