Belt Dryer Machine
Belt Dryer Machine
(also known as a Conveyor or Mesh Belt Dryer) is the preferred choice for
large-scale, continuous drying of sensitive food items like fish, spices, and
vegetables. Unlike batch tray dryers, these machines move the product through
different temperature zones, ensuring uniform moisture removal without damage.
1. Technical
Specifications for Food & Fish
For multi-purpose
use, the machine must handle different temperature profiles (fish requires a
lower, more delicate heat than spices).
|
Feature |
Vegetable &
Spices |
Fish &
Seafood |
|
Belt Material |
SS 304 Mesh or
PTFE Coated |
Food Grade SS 304
/ 316 (Anti-corrosive) |
|
Layers |
3, 5, or 7 Layers
(for space saving) |
Typically 3
Layers (to prevent sticking) |
|
Drying Temp |
60 C to 90 C |
45C to 65C}(Low & Slow) |
|
Drying Time |
30 mins to 2
hours |
4 hours to 12
hours |
|
Heating Source |
Gas / Steam /
Electric / Heat Pump |
Heat Pump (Best
for fish to keep color) |
2. Why use a
"Multi-Layer" Belt Dryer?
- Automatic Flipping: When the product falls
from the top belt to the bottom belt, it naturally "flips." This
ensures the underside of the fish or vegetable slice also gets dried
perfectly.
- Continuous Operation: You can feed raw
material at one end and collect dried product at the other 24/7.
- Zonal Temperature Control: You can set the
first section to high heat (to remove surface water) and the final section
to low heat (for deep drying), which is critical for spices to retain
their aroma (essential oils).
3. Integrated
Components
- Feeder/Distributor: A "Vibratory
Feeder" or "Oscillating Spreader" is used to spread fish or
vegetables evenly across the belt width. If the layer is too thick, the
middle won't dry.
- Air Circulation: High-velocity fans
circulate hot air vertically through the mesh belt.
- Exhaust System: A moisture-exhaust fan
removes the humid air, while a heat recovery system can reuse the dry air
to save fuel.
- Cooling Zone: The last 1-2 meters of the
belt often use ambient air to cool the product so it can be packed
immediately.