AJAY SHAJI

AKASH PRADEEP

DEVKIRAN SAJITH

 SRIKANTH RAJGOPAL

The project presents an experimental investigation on the performance of a solar rubber sheet dryer integrated with thermal hcat storage. The primary objective of the study is to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of using solar energy, combincd with a thermal storage system. tor drying rubber sheets in an environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient manner. The dryer System utilizes solar collectors to capture solar radiation, which is then stored in a thermal storage medium for continuous drying, even during periods of low sunlight or at night. The experimental setup includes monitoring parameters such as drying time. temperature variations, and moisture content reduction under different weather conditions. The results demonstrate that the thernmal heat storage significantly improves drying efficiency by maintaining a consistent drying temperature, reducing the drying time, and minimizing the dependency on direct sunlight. This investigation highlights the potential of solar dryers with thermal storage for small-scale and medium-scale rubber production, offering an alternative to conventional energy -intensive drying methods. Additionally, the economic and environmental benefits of this system are discussed, emphasizing its potential to reduce operational costs and carbon emiss.