Efficient Air-Drying of Processed Coffee

Kona Coffee Farmers Association Engineering, 2009-10

Liaison(s): Dr. Robert Kraus
Advisor(s): Nancy Lape
Students(s): Marc Davidson (TL-S), Bryan Downs, Mary Moore-Simmons (TL-F), Thomas Oh, Kristina Runas (S), Allison Wynn (F)

The goal of this project is to dry post-harvest processed coffee to the desired moisture content (10-15%) as quickly as possible. The most common drying method is to spread the beans out on a patio to let the sun and wind dry them. Many farmers have difficulty drying to the required moisture content due to high humidity, rain, lack of sun, and other factors. Long drying times may degrade the quality and taste of the coffee. Our system will dry coffee beans more efficiently while using as little electricity from the grid as possible.