Process

Units can be single pass or triple tiered built in stainless steel Grade 304 as standard, to offer improved accessibility for cleaning and routine maintenance. Full length doors are fitted all around the machine, including above and below the in feed and discharge sections, these allow access into both top and bottom plenum chambers, along with the main dryer chamber itself. A range of product spreading and feeding systems are also available, including scarf edge vibratory conveyors, reciprocating rake and oscillating belt systems. Electric, gas and thermal oil heating options are available.

The dryer features an industry standard digitally controlled burner, integrated circulation fan, door interlock system, user assisted access panels and global project and service support from Flo-Mech.

Equipment description

The product is spread evenly across the in feed belt which enters the product drying chamber. The product belt moves slowly through the drying chamber. Air is heated by an integrated gas burner and forced into the drying chamber by a fan and ducts. The air is directed into the drying chamber by a unique split duct system’ this evenly distributes the heated air across the full machine width and length to ensure efficient drying of the product with minimal energy consumption. The warm air is continuously moved through the drying chamber to remove excess moisture from the product. The air temperature in the dryer is controlled by closed loop control of the burner to maintain the set point required. Belt speed is controlled via variable frequency drive to ensure the correct residence/ drying time is achieved to give the correct exit moisture level.

The product moisture level may need to be removed for a number of reasons. Snack foods have their moisture level reduced to allow them to absorb oil/flavour coatings. Cereals may need their moisture removed to increase the bite of the product and also improve shelf life. By removing the water content bacterial growth potential is reduced and product quality can be maintained for longer periods.

There are many applications that suit this drying principle.

Flo-Dry Features

• Full stainless steel construction
• Fully insulated doors with insulation fully encapsulated in stainless steel panel
• Full length access doors for cleaning, thermostat/interlocked for safety
• Optimised flow path designed using 3D simulation software
• Split duct air plenums
• Integrated fan set
• Self-supporting belt design with no internal belt supports in drying chamber
• Automatic belt tensioning system
• Auto lubricating system for belt rollers
• Explosion relief panels at both ends of dryer for enhanced safety
• Options to add moisture meter to effect closed loop moisture control
• Option to add cooling section to reduce product temperature after drying