This week’s photo shows pellets inside of a rotary dryer. The image was taken at FEECO’s lab testing center, where dryers are often used both prior to and post agglomeration processing.
Feedstock must be within an ideal moisture range in order for agglomeration to occur. Thus, rotary dryers are often used to reduce the material’s moisture prior to agglomeration. Drying can also improve the subsequent processing steps by reducing issues such as clumping, most commonly seen with hygroscopic materials.
Post agglomeration, drying cures the “green,” or wet pellet into its final form by reducing moisture down to a range specific to the material and its anticipated application. This varies per material, but the overall drying process helps to ensure a product can withstand handling and transportation, while still breaking down as intended. In addition, rotary dryers help “polish” the pellets, rounding them as they tumble inside of the rotating drum.
For more information on the role of drying in agglomeration, contact us today!