AUG SG22

[kanoak]

Just landed a different type of solar dry kiln. First, this is an old, used unit that I got for a great deal; it will need some repairs, and I plan on significant modifications to some of the design.
I am very impressed with their design and build quality, considering how long it has been used. The incredible support and documentation, including history of the unit that I got from Roger at solardry.com.au provided real value to me. Amazing support for their product!


 
This is a 40' container set up with a drain-down solar thermal array and propane backup requiring 240V to power the circulation fans. 
Heat exchangers roof mounted with the fans.


 

Auxilary LP heater missing.


 
Lots of SS inside and a nice track.


 
I will need to build a roof for the unit, as well as to mount the solar thermal on. It will also require 20kw of pv to run the fans continuously at this site. Roofs are in my immediate future.
I will try to keep this thread updated with some of the lessons I learn getting this thing going my way.

[KenMac]

Twenty thousand watts should run more fans than you can stack in a container. Are you sure that is correct? Nothing to me mind you. It just seems very high. 

[customsawyer]

I would think you would need 6 fans for a 40 ft container but I'm not familiar with that kiln. 

[kanoak]

The unit uses just over 2kw to run, however, based on my experience with the site, I need about 10x generating capacity to compensate for overnight and cloudy weather. It has some pretty big fans with 3-phase motors; ill see if I can find the cfm to compare. I would like to set it up stock and run a load to get a feel for how it is supposed to work, but hopefully Ill get a roof over it before I am able.