🎓Early Academic Pursuits
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pimpan Pruengam, born on January 24, 1980, has been a significant contributor to the field of agricultural engineering. She began her academic journey at Suranaree University of Technology, where she earned her Bachelor of Engineering in Agricultural Engineering in 2002. Her passion for the subject led her to pursue a Master of Engineering in Agricultural Engineering from Kasetsart University, completed in 2006. She later obtained her Ph.D. in Energy Technology from King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi in 2017. Her educational background laid a strong foundation for her future work in drying technology, renewable energy, and post-harvest engineering.
🏢Professional Endeavors
Dr. Pruengam has been an influential faculty member at the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Kamphaeng Saen, Kasetsart University, since 2007. Her role as a lecturer has allowed her to impart knowledge and mentor countless students. Before her academic tenure, she gained valuable industry experience as an engineer at Bitwise (Thailand) Co., Ltd. from 2002 to 2004. Her practical experience in the engineering sector, combined with her academic pursuits, has enabled her to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
🔬Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Pruengam’s research has significantly contributed to the fields of drying technology, renewable energy, and post-harvest engineering. She has authored numerous papers in both national and international journals. Her notable works include studies on the rapid drying of parboiled paddy using hot-air impinging stream dryers and the mechanical properties of parboiled brown rice kernels during drying processes. She has also explored innovative techniques such as the design of a sugar cane washing machine for fresh juice production and the development of a lotus seed separating machine.
In the realm of renewable energy, Dr. Pruengam has researched the use of greenhouse technology for solar drying of bananas and the performance testing of small diesel engines using coconut and soybean oils. Her work on the potential of cashew nut shell waste in charcoal briquettes exemplifies her dedication to sustainable engineering solutions.
🏆Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Pruengam’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has received recognition for her work through various awards and accolades. One of her significant achievements is the patent for the “Ultra Fast Drying of Parboiled Paddy Using Hot Air Impinging Stream Technique,” issued in 2019. This innovation showcases her ability to create practical solutions with broad industrial applications.
Her academic excellence is further demonstrated by her numerous presentations at national and international conferences. She has presented her research at prestigious events, including the International Drying Symposium in Lyon, France, and the ISSCT Agricultural Engineering Workshop in Nakhonpathom, Thailand. These platforms have allowed her to share her knowledge with a global audience, enhancing her reputation as a leading expert in her field.
🌍Impact and Influence
Dr. Pruengam’s work has had a significant impact on the agricultural engineering community. Her research has provided valuable insights into improving drying processes, enhancing energy efficiency, and developing sustainable practices in post-harvest engineering. Her teaching and mentorship have shaped the careers of many students, fostering the next generation of engineers and researchers.
Her interdisciplinary approach, combining agricultural engineering with energy technology, has led to innovative solutions that address critical challenges in food processing and renewable energy. Her work on drying technology, in particular, has implications for improving food quality, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing post-harvest losses.
🌟Legacy and Future Contributions
As an accomplished academic and researcher, Dr. Pruengam continues to push the boundaries of her field. Her future contributions are expected to focus on further advancing drying technologies and exploring new renewable energy sources. Her dedication to sustainable engineering practices will likely lead to more innovative solutions that benefit both the industry and the environment.