Articles
A computational fluid dynamics model of the spatial and temporal gas distribution in a storage container for apple fruit
Article number
1154_24
Pages
185 – 192
Language
English
Abstract
A 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of a storage container for apple fruit was developed using the computational software ANSYS 16.2. The geometrical model considered the detailed geometry of the container and fruit bins.
Two random stacks of spheres representing the fruit were generated using a discrete element simulation.
Air velocity was simulated and the predicted air velocity field in the container was validated by velocity measurements in the real storage container using a thermal anemometer.
Subsequently, O2 gas transport was simulated using the validated velocity field.
The gas transport model was validated based on measurements of the O2 partial pressure as a function of time at a fixed position in the storage container.
The model was used to simulate the spatiotemporal O2 gas evolution in the storage container during a respiration quotient (RQ) measurement period.
Gas gradients in the container atmosphere were found to be negligible.
Large O2 concentration gradients were found inside the stored fruit.
Two random stacks of spheres representing the fruit were generated using a discrete element simulation.
Air velocity was simulated and the predicted air velocity field in the container was validated by velocity measurements in the real storage container using a thermal anemometer.
Subsequently, O2 gas transport was simulated using the validated velocity field.
The gas transport model was validated based on measurements of the O2 partial pressure as a function of time at a fixed position in the storage container.
The model was used to simulate the spatiotemporal O2 gas evolution in the storage container during a respiration quotient (RQ) measurement period.
Gas gradients in the container atmosphere were found to be negligible.
Large O2 concentration gradients were found inside the stored fruit.
Authors
N. Bessemans, M.A. Delele, P. Verboven, B.E. Verlinden, H. Ramon, B.M. Nicolai
Keywords
computational fluid dynamics, controlled atmosphere, apple
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