DESSICA provided a solution for its customer Biofin located in the North West of France.
Customer’s field of activity: Cucurbit production
The role of air dehumidification in squash storage
Air dehumidification involves reducing the amount of moisture present in the environment. For squash storage, this measure is particularly important. As a densely-fleshed fruit, squash is sensitive to excessive humidity. Air that is too humid encourages the development of mould and bacteria and accelerates the decomposition of squash, thus compromising their quality.
Economic challenges:
– Preserving pumpkins and butternuts over the winter period
– Avoid losses
– Prevent rotting of the fruit
Technical challenges:
– Supply dry air to the refrigeration system
– Provide air with 45% relative humidity in the fridges
– Dealing with the moisture released by the squash during storage
– Planning an outdoor installation
The answers and solutions provided by Dessica
Supply of a standard adsorption air dryers: DL range rotary dehumidifier with a nominal flow rate of 10,000m3/h (air dehumidifier model: DL10000)
– The dryer is equipped with electric regeneration.
– The dryer is fitted with two G4 filters on the process air and regeneration circuits.
– The drier can be controlled remotely, and the process fan can be controlled externally, depending on the number of refrigerators used.
– Commissioning was carried out by DESSiCA technicians.
Maintenance
– This solution requires little maintenance, apart from regular replacement of the air filters.
– It is strongly recommended that a specialist DESSiCA technician visits the unit every year.
– The service life of a desiccant wheel is 8 to 12 years, depending on use. DESSiCA installations are at least 80% efficient after 10 years (subject to proper use).
Benefits and return on investment (ROI) for Biofin :
– Installing the system has enabled Biofin to avoid post-harvest decomposition of squash and improve the quality of the finished product for consumers.
– The system has been in operation since November 2023.
Air dehumidification by adsorption therefore represents an economic and ecological strategy for maximising harvest profitability by minimising post-harvest losses.
By adopting effective dehumidification methods, farmers and growers can optimise squash shelf life, reduce economic losses and bring top-quality products to market.
For more information : Contact us +33 (0)4 74 08 44 44 or contact@dessica.fr
