EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF AIR FLOW BY EVAPORATOR ARRANGEMENT AT TOP, MEDIUM AND BOTTOM

This thesis investigates the influence of air circulation on cold storage efficiency and food preservation quality. Experimental analyses were conducted using a hot wire anemometer to measure air velocity and temperature distribution at different points within the cold storage environment. The air flow model was developed based on the arrangement of evaporators at the top, medium, and bottom of the cold storage unit. The results obtained from this arrangement were analysed, and a parametric study was performed using an equivalent model with varying blowing air velocities and cooling unit locations. The findings indicated improved cooling effectiveness and temperature uniformity in the cold store, achieved through higher blowing velocities and strategically placing cooling units lower and closer to the array of produce packages. The research also explored the spatial distribution of air velocity at the ceiling, medium, and floor levels in the experimental cold storage, alongside temperature variations in different locations within the cold storage unit.