The dryer is provided with flat-plate solar air collector as main source of heat energy and electrical heating element as a backup heat source for continuous drying operations even under unfavorable weather conditions, i.e during cloudy/ rainy days and night. The dryer consists of four drying chambers with nine trays in each chamber. The perforated trays accomplish a through flow drying pattern within the dryer which enhances drying rates. Food grade stainless steel is used for the fabrication of chamber as well as perforated trays which enable drying of fish in a very hygienic manner.  The chance of contamination and spoilage due to sand, dust, flies, insects, birds, animals and rain are completely eliminated as drying takes place inside a closed chamber.

Technology Benefits 

• Ideal for drying of fish, fruits, vegetables, spices and agro products  
• Hygienically prepared premium quality uniformly dried product
• Economically viable and eco-friendly – maximum use of solar energy 
• The drying time is reduced considerably with improved product quality.
• Lesser operating expenses
• Improved shelf life and value addition of the product fetches higher income for the fisher folk.
• Labor requirement is considerably reduced compared to open sun drying 
• Re-handling process like spreading, sorting and storing are eliminated
• Provision for integrating Sun-tracking and SMS alert systems