In this work the finite element technique was used to obtain the air distribution in a mass of corn kernels submitted to an aeration process. The product (13% w.b.) was stored in metallic bin provided with a circular duct aeration system. The mass of grains was considered as being composed of regions (distributed resistances) that offer different resistances to the airflow in the horizontal and vertical directions. The model for air distribution in the bin was validated through experiments under similar conditions to the simulated ones with 0.0157 m³ s-1 m-2 airflow. The simulated air distribution indicated the existence of zones of low air velocities in the mass of grains located at the base of the bin (close to the center and to the wall of the bin). The simulated and experimental air velocities on the surface of the mass of grains showed a uniform tendency. The use of the finite element technique for the prediction of the airflow distribution in bins with aeration system was satisfactory and it involved a mean relative error of 6.9%..
aeration; finite element; airflow; corn
