TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR MINT DEHYDRATION IN DOUBLECHAMBER MARQUEE USING LINEAR ACTUATORS

Abstract

The objective of this research was to determine the thermal performance of a solar dehydration system that allows controlling the temperature for the dehydration of aromatic herbs such as mint. The use of a double chamber marquee allowed obtaining high thermal values, even with low radiation levels. For temperature control, a system of vertical mobile beds was used in order to reach the programmed temperature. This temperature was monitored using an embedded Arduino-type system that allows both monitoring and controlling motors, as well as recording temperature information. It was possible to keep the temperature approximately constant at 40°C, the ideal value for drying aromatic and medicinal herbs.