While rotary dryers should be customized to yield optimal processing conditions around the material and drying needs at hand, the basis of a rotary dryer is often somewhat standard.
The following is an overview of some of the standard components of a rotary dryer, as well as available customizations. Some information here may be specific to FEECO rotary dryers.
Shell- the large, cylindrical structure made from a variety of materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, hastelloy and iconel. The shell can be customized in terms of thickness, or insulation, to meet the needs of the process.
Combustion Chamber- this is where the actual combustion reaction occurs. From here, the drying air is directed through the drum.
Burner- the burner is the engine behind the dryer, and works to determine the output of BTU’s/Watts.
Feed Chute- where the material feedstock is fed into the dryer.
Air Seal- the seal connects the discharge breeching to the dryer, in order to keep air and material from prematurely exiting the drum.
Drive Assembly- the mechanism which causes the dryer to rotate.
Riding Ring- part of the support structure for the dryer, and a place for pressure to be absorbed.
Thrust rollers- push up on the riding ring to prevent the drum from moving horizontally.
Trunnion Wheels- serve as the cradle for the rotating drum, helping to ensure the dryer moves smoothly and in a concentric rotation.
Flights- pick up the material and drop it through the air stream as the dryer rotates. This maximizes heat transfer between the material and the drying air.
Discharge Breeching- where the product exits the dryer, and also where the exhaust gas system removes off-gases and small particulates.
Common add-ons include:
Advancing flights– help to advance material into the drum.
Knocking Systems– used to prevent material build-up within the drum.
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FEECO has been a leader in industrial drying since the 1950s. To learn more about our custom designed and manufactured dryers, contact us today!