Computational Fluid Dynamics and Thermal Analysis of an Unloaded Lumber-drying Kiln

Abstract

Aim of study: Drying in kilns becomes one of the most significant procedures for the optimal use of wood products since the dimensions alter with changes in relative humidity. Computational fluid dynamics analysis of an unloaded lumber-drying kiln and positioning of the timber to be dried were aimed. Material and methods: The heat and flow analysis of the lumber-drying kiln was analyzed using ANSYS software. Concrete and aluminum were chosen as the floor and wall materials, respectively. The wall thickness was taken as 1 meter. Gravity forces were also taken into account in the study, the number of elements of the created mesh is 87057 and the number of nodes is 17730. Main results: The flow characteristics and temperature analyses formed in the study shed light on the lumber-drying kilns planned to be built. Preliminary information is provided about the positioning of the lumbers to be dried according to flow paths and temperature distributions. Highlights: Flow analyzes of the unloaded lumber-drying kiln were undertaken and streamlines were shown. The thermal analysis of the hot air directed from the fans together with the concrete floor of the drying kiln and the walls made of aluminum panels was made.