A heat source is indispensable for a dryer to dry materials, and the selection of a heat source is also determined by the complexity of the materials. Once the materials to be dried are confirmed, the corresponding heat source needs to be selected accordingly. Today, taking the triple-cylinder dryer as an example, we will analyze and explain the heat source selection for this type of dryer.
There are seven common heat supply materials available, namely steam, electric energy, coal, hot water, fuel oil, biomass pellets and flammable gas. While some of these heat sources entail relatively high costs, the overall selection is subject to the rational design of the drying equipment and the convenience of its operation.
Dahua Machinery reminds that the following four factors should be taken into account when selecting a heat source:
- In addition to the rationality of the raw material for the heat source, consideration should also be given to its cost and easy availability.
- To ensure the quality of the dried materials, an analysis of the heating temperature of the heat source is required to maintain stability during the material drying process.
- The selected heat source should not generate peculiar smells or smoke during combustion, so as to prevent environmental pollution.
- This is a crucial factor in selection: for materials that are flammable, explosive or easily oxidizable, careful heat source selection is a must. Indirect heat exchange heat sources are highly recommended to avoid potential hazards caused by direct contact between the heat source and such materials.
If conditions permit, we recommend the use of biomass pellets – specifically a biomass pellet burner, which is a biomass-fired device that uses a variety of biomass materials as fuel.
In summary, the heat source selection for a dryer must be based on actual working conditions. As the heat source plays a pivotal role in the material drying process, it is a key consideration that requires careful evaluation at present.