Solar thermal energy alternatives and their application to water heating and air cooling in the meat processing industry

Solar thermal energy alternatives and their application to water heating and air cooling in the meat processing industry

This research sought to provide insights into the possible applications of solar thermal energy within the meat processing industry. This project is carried out in conjunction with Churchill Abattoir located west of Ipswich in Queensland, Australia; with the view to develop a solar thermal alternative for producing heated water to cater in part for the needs of their operation whilst simultaneously providing refrigeration. In terms of an industry comparison, Churchill Abattoir is ranked approximately 25-30th of 180 abattoirs nationwide and processes (i.e. slaughter, bone and butcher) around 2500 cattle per week. The meat processing industry has a high demand for heated water. Its uses vary from hand washing and laundry (~43oC) to sterilisation of equipment such as saws, meat hooks, knives etc (>83oC). It also has high energy needs for refrigeration. A solar thermal system that could reduce energy costs in these areas would not only benefit Churchill Abattoir but may see further application within the industry. The project began by evaluating the existing alternatives for system components such as energy collectors, solar tracking, chillers and heaters. Once the component variables and design parameters for a conceptual system had been established, an initial design was proposed and analysed to determine its capabilities. As a result of the analysis, components and sizes were selected for a conceptual system that could be implemented at the abattoir.

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