Optimalisasi Proses Pengeringan Produk Pertanian dengan Sistem Pengering Berbasis LPG: Studi Kasus pada UKM Sekar Melati di Desa Gumiwang, Jawa Tengah

Abstract

In Drying of agricultural products at the “Sekar Melati” SME has traditionally been carried out using conventional methods, namely sun-drying opak on tarpaulins and drying coffee over wood-fired stoves. This approach is highly dependent on weather conditions and often results in uneven drying, making the products prone to moisture and deterioration. To address these issues, we conducted a community service program by introducing a simple LPG-based drying system. The dryer is constructed from stainless steel in a cabinet form and heated from below using a standard gas stove. The objectives were straightforward: to accelerate the drying process, maintain product quality, and reduce operational costs. After a 10-day trial period, the drying time for opak decreased from 48 hours to 16–18 hours, while coffee drying time was reduced from 7 hours to 3–4 hours. The moisture content of the products also declined significantly, with opak decreasing from 30% to 11%, and coffee from 17% to 9%. Product shelf life increased by up to two weeks. In addition, operational costs were reduced by nearly 60%, as there was no longer a need to purchase firewood. All SME members were able to operate the equipment independently, clean it, and even organize shift schedules. A minor issue of uneven heat distribution on the upper racks was observed; however, this was effectively managed by rotating the racks every hour. Although LPG is not a renewable energy source, it represents a practical solution in this rural context, where electricity supply remains unstable and firewood is increasingly scarce. Moving forward, we plan to explore the use of coffee and cassava waste as alternative fuels that are more cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and locally sustainable.