BULK THERMAL-PROPERTIES OF ALFALFA PELLETS

The line heat source method was used to obtain bulk thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of alfalfa pellets of moisture contents ranging from 7.5% to 18.0% (wet basis). Specific heat of the pellets was calculated from values of thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, and bulk density. Bulk thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of alfalfa pellets ranged from 0.112 to 0.204 W . m(-1). K-1 and from 1.05 x 10(-7) to 2.50 x 10(-7) m(2)/s respectively. Specific heat of the pellets varied from 1636 to 2021 J . kg(-1). K-1. The thermal properties were not significantly affected by alfalfa pellet type.