Perancangan Mesin Pengering Kerupuk Berbasis Energi Panel Surya untuk Meningkatkan Efisiensi UMKM

Abstract

The cracker drying process in most MSMEs is still carried out traditionally by utilizing direct sunlight, making it highly dependent on weather conditions and requiring a relatively long drying time. This study aims to design a semi-automatic cracker drying machine based on solar panel energy to improve drying efficiency and increase MSME productivity. The research method used is a quantitative approach through design development using SolidWorks 2024 software, numerical calculations, and structural as well as thermal simulations. The simulations conducted include Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), thermal analysis, displacement analysis, stress testing, and factor of safety evaluation on a machine frame made of stainless steel 304. The machine was designed with a drying capacity of 25–30 kg per batch and equipped with a semi-automatic hot air circulation system powered by solar panels. The design results indicate that the use of a solar energy-based drying system can improve drying process efficiency, maintain stable heat distribution, and produce a safe and feasible structural design based on loading simulation results. The implementation of this machine is expected to make the drying process faster, more hygienic, and less dependent on weather conditions, thereby improving the quality and productivity of crackers in MSMEs.