Simulation and Validation of Airflow Pressure Patterns for Horizontal Airflow through Bulk Canola

Grain bulk is anisotropic for airflow through it, thus having different resistance to airflow through grain beds in horizontal and vertical directions. In the present study, a three-dimensional finite element model that can predict the air pressure patterns in canola was developed. A modified form of Darcy's lawfor fluid flow through porous media predicted the pressure drop, and the model was validated against experimental values of pressure drop across a 0.25 m canolabed. Average relative error values were less than 6.3%. Further, effect of foreign material (fines and chaff), duct configuration (spacing and size) and bin height to diameter ratio on the pressure patterns in bulk Tobin canola were simulated. Grain aeration systems with horizontal direction of airflow will require less energy, cost and time as compared to systems with vertical direction of airflow. Design considerations for prospective systems with horizontal direction of airflow are also presented.