CUTTING-EDGE FISH DRYER: FUZZY LOGIC-DRIVEN TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Abstract
Fish is a highly sought-after food both domestically and internationally, renowned not only for its delectable taste but also for its health benefits, owing to its high protein content and low fat content compared to other animal protein sources. However, preserving fish and maintaining its quality poses challenges, as it is prone to rapid spoilage. Drying is one of the most effective methods for fish preservation, wherein the reduction and elimination of water content hinder the growth of microorganisms. Fish drying techniques can be classified into two types: traditional and modern. Traditional methods, employed by fishermen, often lack proper hygiene and may be harmful to the environment. On the other hand, modern approaches provide a more controlled and hygienic drying process.
The effectiveness of fish drying is significantly influenced by various factors, including temperature, airflow, desired moisture content, drying energy, and drying capacity. Rapid drying can lead to surface material damage, hindering proper air movement and causing hardening. To avoid such issues, temperature and time parameters need careful adjustment, typically set around 50 °C to 60 °C to maintain standard nutrition. Drying techniques can be categorized based on whether they utilize direct sunlight or not. The use of electric heaters in drying ovens is a viable option for controlling temperature. The overall drying process encompasses washing, drying, and cooling (airing) the raw materials, aiming for a desired water content of 40% according to SNI 2721.3:2009 to ensure prolonged fish storage.
In modern technological developments, the fuzzy logic control system has emerged as an alternative approach for optimizing the drying process. By implementing fuzzy logic, the drying process can achieve higher precision with minimal variations, resulting in dried fish of superior quality. Integrating fuzzy logic control enhances the efficiency of the drying process, providing a more robust and consistent outcome.
