Spray Drying

Principle and operation of spray drying

The spray drying method consists of dehydrating a liquid element by spraying it into a flow of hot air. The process turns the product into droplets before it comes out as a powder. The technique is carried out using a drying tower, a turbine or by injection into nozzles.

The current of hot air evaporates the water present in the product. The ratio of mixtures and the humidity of the air must be monitored according to the seasons to preserve its full efficiency.

The functional advantages of spray drying

Some drying towers have an optimized and constant capacity to stabilize the process. The vertical aspect of the system prevents deposits of products on the walls and reduces the maintenance phases. This minimizes downtime and downtime to ensure the integrity of the tower.

As for energy expenditure, it is limited thanks to the principle of dehydration by absorption. In addition, spray drying can be used to restrict defrosting operations in a negative cold room.

What consequences for the quality and preservation of products?

Spray drying is very practical for obtaining a particular product with regard to its component and texture. For example, freeze-dried soups or coffee powder for pods. The conservation of products is more stable and longer.

From a logistical point of view, the reduced volumes facilitate transport and minimize handling costs. Their storage also takes up less space than their liquid form.