Vibrating versus Shaking Fluid Bed Dryers

Vibrating fluid bed dryers use a large drive mechanism with the bed mounted on springs like a vibrating conveyor to move product through the dryer. The main disadvantage is that the dryer and the product are subjected to significant g-forces. These high forces typically cause friable product to break apart creating unnecessary and often unwanted fines and waste. In addition, the high g-forces will be transferred to the surrounding structures resulting in additional installation requirements, premature equipment wear, premature instrument wear and elevated noise. This causes the bed case to fracture and the drive mechanisms are subject to periodic refurbishment.

Shaking fluid bed dryers solve the high g-force issue by eliminating the need for vibration and include a more advanced control systems that eliminates the need for continuous operator involvement. Product is moved through the dryer by a gentle shaking motion, Low Frequency / High Amplitude, which moves it forward in a step by step uniform manner referred to as plug flow. The g-force issue is eliminated allowing for smallest possible product deterioration, reduced foundation requirements and minimal noise output. A shaking fluid bed dryer system typically has the lowest life cycle cost via substantial savings in fuel consumption and maintenance costs.