Dryer Achieves Reduced Retention Times in Continuous Granulation

Lödige has rounded off its product portfolio for continuous granulation with a new dryer — the LCF 5, which is distinguished by a defined retention time of the product inside the machine. This enables shorter processing times to be achieved in production. With the LCF 5, CoriMix CM 5 laboratory ringlayer mixer and customised dosing technology, Lödige now offers a complete continuous GRANUCON granulation line.

The LCF 5 dryer is based on the fluid bed process in which the material is dried in the fluid bed by convection. The drying air is heated prior to entry into the fluid bed processor and evenly distributed through the special sieve tray of the product container. The current holds the product in suspension and fluidises it. This guarantees excellent heat transfer and drying values while handling the product gently. Hitherto, this process required a broad retention time distribution inside the dryer. With the new design, Lödige has achieved a defined, narrow retention time in the new dryer of the GRANUCON line compared with conventional devices. For this purpose, forced delivery by means of a screw was integrated into the LCF 5, enabling retention times to be reduced in continuous production. The fluid bed dryer is designed for throughputs of 5 to 30 kg/h and product moisture levels of up to 20%.

The LCF 5 also offers efficiency in terms of maintenance and cleaning; the screw is easily removed and the floor can be replaced. In addition, the dryer features the integrated WIP cleaning function. The filter elements are cleaned individually.

Gebr. Lödige Maschinenbau GmbH, +49 5251 309 371, lemperle@loedige.de, www.loedige.de.