What is a functional design for a superheated steam pilot plant spray drier? - Design considerations for food applications

Superheated steam spray drying has the potential to significantly reduce the net energy consumption of drying processes. Food products have been successfully dried in laboratory scale systems with unique properties. In this paper the technological challenges for industrial applications are discussed. A closed-loop superheated steam spray dryer set up is introduced at pilot plant scale with focus on heat-sensitive food materials. The design of the drying chamber is a novel approach to meet the specific characteristics of such materials for superheated steam spray drying. The discharge of the dry powder from the steam atmosphere is realized by a novel annular venturi nozzle system, which operates fully continuously and rapidly. These adaptations ensure a low oxygen content in the system, protection of the feed and condensation-free powder discharge.