Drying & Thermal Solids Processing Spotlight

Fluid Bed Batch Dryer
This circular vibratory fluid-bed processing system dries small batches of bulk solid materials. The self-contained system integrates an 18-in.-diam fluid-bed processor with a heater, a blower, a cyclone separator, and controls, ready for connection to a material inlet/outlet and power source. Intended for small-volume production and laboratory/pilot plant testing, the system dries batches up to 1 cu ft. At the end of each drying cycle, a valve at the spout of the fluid-bed chamber opens automatically to evacuate the batch. Models up to 84 in. diam are available for drying, cooling, or moisturizing.
Kason Corp., Millburn, NJ 973-467-8140 www.kason.com

Vacuum Dryers
Conical, shelf, and rotary vacuum dryers remove moisture by exposing material to reduced pressure. Materials dry quickly and evenly without the problems associated with high-temperature drying. Vacuum drying is ideal for materials that are heat sensitive, pyrophoric, or subject to oxidation. Shelf dryers are designed for drying materials that must not be agitated or must be processed in small batches. Conical dryers are designed for drying free-flowing materials that cannot withstand attrition. Rotary dryers are designed for drying difficult or sticky materials that can withstand agitation.
McGill AirPressure LLC, Columbus, OH 614-443-0192 www.mcgillairpressure.com

Fluid Bed Dryers/Toasters
High-velocity fluidized air impingement technology can be used when processing products that benefit from rapid heat transfer. The AeroFlow features an operator-friendly design and can be used for drying, toasting, puffing, roasting, or cooling. The controlled air-to-product fluidization throughout the bed produces consistently high product quality. Coupled with low operating costs achieved through recirculated air design, the unit is energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Aeroglide Corp., Cary, NC 919-851-2000 www.aeroglide.com

Plate Dryer
Ideal for continuous drying of free-flowing powders, this plate dryer is available in atmospheric, gastight, or vacuum models. It is a conduction dryer, so carrier gas to remove water or solvent vapors is very low, minimizing the potential for dust carryover. Heat-sensitive, toxic, or solvent wet products can be gently dried in a controlled, safe environment. High product quality is achieved thanks to the exact control of drying temperatures on each plate. Units are available with heat transfer area up to 2160 sq ft.
KMPT USA Inc., Florence, KY 859-547-1100 www.kmpt.net

Vacuum Dryers
VT vacuum dryers are based on the state-of-the-art mechanically fluidized bed mix action augmented by the high-speed choppers, the combined effect of which leads to efficient thermal processing. Because of the excellent heat transfer and vacuum capabilities, products can be dried at lower temperatures making these units ideal for temperature-sensitive materials. The company maintains a completely equipped test center to assist customers in process development and maintains an extensive rental fleet so customers can run field trials at their facilities.
Littleford Day Inc., Florence KY 800-365-8555 www.littleford.com

Thermal Processor
This 12-ft-diam Turbo-Dryer thermal processor is being installed to heat-treat a metal compound to produce the oxide form of the metal. It includes an external gas-fired heating system to provide the heat necessary for the conversion. An air-to-air heat exchanger is provided for high heat efficiency.
Wyssmont Company, Inc., Ft. Lee, NJ 201-947-4600 www.wyssmont.com