Cost economic evaluation of infrared assisted hybrid dryer for horticultural produce

Apple is one of the most widely consumed fruit all over India, loved by all age groups. To avail the product year-round, a widely accepted convectional techniques namely drying is followed in large scale. The process of drying is cost intensive and time consuming by nature. Mechanisation will act as a boon to food product developer in this field. A concise knowledge regarding ownership and operational expenses are required for a food product developer which will be helpful in choosing right one from the options like purchasing a new machine, advancement of existing one or exploring the alternative methods to enhance financial outcome. Therefore, ownership cost and operational cost of developed infrared assisted air impingement hybrid dryer were analysed. The dryer was found to be cost effective as it has low breakeven point and short payback period.