Fluid Bed Dryer: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

For any question on fluid bed dryer, you will get all the answers and solutions in this guide.

It is specifically tailored to make you an expert and knowledgeable in fluid bed drying systems.

Whether you’re a newbie or an expert, you will find this FBD useful.

Let’s get started:

What is Fluid Bed Dryer?

It is an assembly of different systems that you can use in the drying of different pharmaceutical materials.

Therefore, it implies, with a fluid bed dryer (FBD), you can easily achieve specific moisture content in granules and powders

What are the Benefits of Fluidized Bed Dryer?

You will need a fluid bed dryer to assist you in performing different functions hence making the benefits.

Here are the main benefits of using a fluid bed dryer.

 Fluid bed dryer

· It helps in Uniform Drying of different Materials

You will be able to remove excess moisture from different materials at the same rate and at the same time.

Implying that you will not worry about having varying moisture contents in different granules after the drying process.

· Reduction of Drying Time in Drying Materials

Fluid bed dryers work at an exceptional speed in getting rid of excess moisture from the granules and powders.

You will save a lot of time hence boost the production process of different pharmaceutical products.

· Performs Multiple Functions

You can use the fluid bed dryer to perform different functions in one particular standing.

Apart from drying materials, you can use the fluid bed dryer for heating, cooling and coating different elements at once.

· High Efficiency in Material Drying System

It has a very unique drying principle that ensures that you get uniform results in the drying process.

You don’t have to worry about repeating the drying process once you set your drying parameters right.

· Low Investment and Maintenance Cost

Depending on the benefits that you will receive by using the fluid bed dryer, the investment cost will be low.

Implying that, you may spend a considerable amount of money on purchasing and installing the machine.

The best part is, you will reap a lot of benefits where the investment cost will seem like a drop in the ocean.

Additionally, the cost of maintaining the machine will also be very low.

· Available in Different Capacities and Sizes

You can get different capacities and sizes of fluid bed dryers according to your production requirements.

The design of the fluid bed dryer will also vary considerably to meet your production specifications.

· Less Labor Intensive and easy to Operate

You will not need to employ many assistants to assist you in the process of operating the fluid bed dryer.

This is because the machine has a human machine interface which makes it easy to operate.

· Ideal for Heat Sensitive Products

You can use it on different products even those that are sensitive to heat to get rid of excess moisture.

The working principle is so precise and focused on drying the materials without changing their physical attributes.

· Produces Perfect Final Products

You will also have perfect final products that are free of hot spots that will alter the physical appearance.

What is Continuous Fluid Bed Dryer?

Continuous fluid bed dryer

Continuous FBDs are machines where a continuous flow of damp granular materials convey over perforated beds.

Through perforations on the bed, the machine passes a stream of hot air to bring about fluidization on the particles.

It has both drying and cooling sections where it dries the particles in one section and cools it in the other section.

What is a Conventional Fluid Bed Dryer?

Conventional fluid bed drying systems are the type of machines that you can use in drying and cooling materials without vibration.

It involves passing of air through different solid particles via perforated nozzles and plates leading to mixing and drying of solids.

Which Industries use Fluid Bed Dryer?

You will use the fluidized bed dryer in different industries to help in getting rid of excess moisture.

Fluid bed dryer – Photo courtesy: Pharma Approach

Apart from that, after the drying process, it will also make sure that it cools it to the perfect conditions.

Here are the main industries where you will need the services of a fluid bed dryer.

· Pharmaceutical Industry

You will use the fluid bed dryer in the pharmaceutical industry to perform a number of functions.

The fluid bed dryer will assist in getting rid of excess moisture in different tablets in the pharmaceutical industry.

It leaves the fluid bed dryer in a dry and solid condition for longer preservation periods as well as proper transportation.

Apart from that, you can also use the machine in the process of mixing and granulation of different materials.

Additionally, after drying the materials, you can use the fluid bed dryer for coating the materials efficiently.

· Chemical Industry

You will employ the services of the fluid bed dryer in performing a number of functions in the chemical industry.

It is important in the process of drying different types of chemical particles in the chemical industry.

You can also use it for spray granulation for the conversion of liquids into dust-free moulds.

Apart from that, you can also use it in the crystallization of liquid melts in this particular industry.

Additionally, it is an important machine for the re-drying of centrifugal wet particles, especially after mechanical dehydration.

· Food Processing Industry

You will use the fluid bed dryer in a couple of functions in the food processing industry.

Well, to increase the shelf life of the food you will dry it using the fluid bed dryer.

Apart from that, you can use it for other purposes in the process of preparing the food.

Some of the main food preparation process that you can perform using a fluid bed dryer include:

i. Heating of different types of food

ii. Drying of different types of food materials

iii. Roasting of different particles or ingredients for making food

iv. Sterilization in an effort to kill pathogen from food

v. Cooling of different ingredients for making food

Additionally, you can use the fluid bed dryer in the drying process of different types of food.

It is responsible for making the products that are responsible for coloring food such as food color.

· Fertilizer Industry

You will use the fluid bed dryer in the process of making large scale inorganic fertilizers.

Some of the fertilizers that you can make using the fluid bed dryer include:

i. Magnesium fertilizers

ii. Potash inorganic fertilizers

iii. Nitrate and Calcium fertilizers among other types.

The production process of fertilizer using the fluid bed dryer is similar to that of the chemical processing industry.

· Dairy Industry

You will use the fluid bed dryer in processing and drying milk to form instant milk powder.

It has different components that it employs in the process of making the instant milk powder.

There are different industries where you can employ the services of the fluid bed dryer machine.

This includes the dyes and the metallurgical industries.

What are the Disadvantages of Fluid Bed Dryer?

Fluid bed dryer system

Fluid bed dryers have numerous advantages but you will also have a few hitches when you use it.

Here are the main disadvantages of using the fluid bed dryer.

· Not Ideal for Organic Solvents

You cannot use the fluid bed dryer for reducing excess moisture in organic solvents or substances containing organic solvents.

This is because the organic solvents usually dissolve in the products thus making it very difficult to dry.

· Risk of Fire Explosion

Fluid bed dryers use high levels of hot gas and air thus making it difficult to dry toxic or flammable materials.

This may place the lives of the people operating the machine or around the machine in great danger.

· Electrostatic Build-up

When you use the fluid bed dryer there are high chances of electrostatic build up during the drying process.

It is a phenomenon that will happen especially when you are drying organic particles.

You should, therefore, go for the fluid bed dryers with electrical earthing elements to avoid this problem.

· High Attrition Chances

Due to extreme airflow and temperatures and other drying conditions, there are very high chances of attrition.

It can lead to the loss of the product’s strength thus rendering the effectiveness of the product you are drying.

· Difficulty in Drying Sticky Particles

The main principle of drying using the fluid bed dryer is the movement of particles as it takes away excess moisture.

You will, therefore, experience a lot of problems when it comes to drying sticky materials as they don’t move freely.

· Requires an Increase in Gas Adjustments and Handling

Since the machine recirculates most of the exhaust gas supporting thermal productivity, you must have proper handling.

In this case, you will have to make adjustments to the flow of exhaust gas when using the machine.

Some of the adjustments that you should probably consider taking care of include inconsistency and poor fluidization in product quality.

Apart from that, there is the possibility of pressure drop from one time to another prompting proper inspection and adjustment.

Apart from FBD, which other Fluid Bed Equipment are there?

Apart from the fluid bed dryer, there are numerous other types of fluid bed equipment performing different functions.

Here are some of the fluid bed equipment you can consider:

• Fluid bed granulator – it plays an important role whenever you want to granulate material

 Fluid bed granulator and dryer

• Fluid Bed Coater – this fluid be processor plays an important role when you want to coat powder or pellets. Of course, it also has an option for drying products.

What is Fluidization Principle?

Fluidization is a process where granular materials convert to dynamic fluid like state from static solid-like state.

 Fluidized bed

You can compare fluidization principle or process to the process of liquefaction.

It occurs when you pass a fluid up through different granular materials thus leading to granulation or drying of materials.

You will also form different types of fluidization beds according to the velocity of the fluid that will pass through.

In this case:

• Vo is the superficial velocity or approach velocity
• Vmf is the minimized fluidized velocity
• U_t is the particle terminal velocity

How does Fluidized Bed Dryer compare to Hot Air Circulation Pharmaceutical Oven?

Inside hot air circulation oven

 Fluid bed dryer

You will use both fluidized bed dryer and the hot air circulation pharma oven to dry different things.

Well, the fluidized bed dryer not only removed excess moisture, but it also performs granulation of the particles.

What’s more, fluid bed dryers perform other functions such as coating of the particles.

On the other hand, you cannot use hot air circulation pharma oven in the process of granulation of particles.

Apart from that, in both machines, there is a continuous flow of hot air over the particles you intend to dry.

However, fluidized bed dryers have an outlet where the air containing the moisture it takes from the particles passes.

Hot air circulation pharma oven, on the other hand, retains the air within the oven for further drying.

Additionally, the fluid bed dryer usually suspends the particles in the air as it dries the granules and particles.

This because it flows at a very h9igh speed which leads to the suspension of the granules or particles.

On the other hand, the hot air circulation pharma oven circulates the air at low speed thus no suspension of particles.

What is the Difference between Freeze Drying and Fluidized Bed Drying Principles?

You can either choose to dry your pharmaceutical products using fluid bed drying or freeze-drying principle.

 Section of freeze dryer

Freeze drying is a low temperature dehydration process involving the freezing of different products.

Apart from freezing, it reduces the pressure and then removes the frozen excess moisture through the sublimation process.

It is in contrast with the fluidized bed drying principle which involves the application of heat to the drying process.

Fluid bed drying principle involves the passing of hot air over the particles or granules in a bid to get rid of excess moisture.

It suspends the granules or particles in the air since the hot air moves at a very high velocity.

As it passes between the particles.

It takes with it the excess moisture from the particles thus drying the particles.

Which Parameters Affect the Principle of FBD?

Fluid bed drying principle is a systematic process that depends on a number of factors.

You should have proper knowledge about these parameters before indulging in the operation of a fluid bed dryer.

Using a fluid bed dryer, it is important to note that there are three main factors affecting the final outcome.

 Fluid bed dryer equipment

Here are the main factors that you need to pay very close attention to:

i. Process Parameters

ii. Equipment Parameters

iii. Product or Material Parameters

You will easily optimize the fluid bed drying process by carefully controlling the parameters stated above.

Let us look at each of them in detail.

Process Parameters – How the Process Parameters Affect the Fluid Bed Drying Process

Unlike the other systems of drying pharmaceuticals, this process depends on the fluidization technique.

The main process parameters that you need to take into proper consideration include:

a) Operating Temperature of the Fluid Bed Dryer

Temperature is one of the most important parameters that you have to pay close attention to in any drying technique.

This will also apply to the drying technique of the fluid bed dryer where you will have to control the drying temperature.

An increase in temperature of the drying air leads to an increase in the drying rate of the fluid bed dryer.

High temperatures of the drying air usually increase the diffusivity of moisture from the particles.

You should, however, note that there are different products and some may be sensitive to high temperatures.

This implies that you may deform or damage heat sensitive products by increasing the temperature.

Apart from that, low temperatures may lead to the formation of soft spots on the heat sensitive products.

b) Humidity

In case you need a faster drying rate, you must make sure the moisture of incoming air is very low.

This implies that you should use dehumidified air in the process of drying different particles.

c) Air Velocity

You must ensure that the air velocity is at optimum rate for a proper and faster drying experience.

When the velocity of air increases, you will experience a high rate or drying. However, this will only happen to a certain limit.

In this case, you must consider the fact that fluidization process takes place at different velocities.

Equipment Parameters

The equipment parameters are the features of the fluid bed dryer machine that affect the process of drying materials.

The main feature of the fluid bed dryer that involves the equipment parameters are the designs.

Here are the main equipment parameters that affect the process of fluidization.

a) Distribution Plate

The location of the distribution plate will vary from one type of machine to another type of fluid bed dryer.

The manufacturer must have a proper establishment of the most suitable section for optimization of the drying process.

You should note that the distribution plate of the machine is a major determinant of air flow in the system.

b) Shape of FBD

Fluid bed drying systems come in different shapes and designs.

Annular base designs are the greatest guarantees to the best fluidization processes.

You should, however, note that the other shapes are also as good but at different levels.

c) Pressure

You must consider the best types of fluid bed dryers capable of operating within the negative and positive pressure.

d) Nozzle

The height and the position of the nozzle play a huge roll I a multi-purpose fluid bed dryer.

It is an important aspect especially in the process of drying, coating, as well as granulation.

Product or Material Parameters

Powder

In this case, you will have to look at the type of products that you intend to dry, granulate or coat.

You will have a proper guideline on how to optimize your operations by knowing the product parameters.

Here you will look at the following material or product parameters.

a) Moisture Content

The higher the moisture content in the granules, the more time it will take to dry the particles.

You must, therefore, ensure that the moisture content of the particle is considerably low.

b) Nature of the Product

In this case, you will look at different parameters such as diameter, shape, and size of the material.

You should use a product that you can easily fluidize no matter the shape, size or diameter.

In most cases, the best materials for the fluidization process are granules and powders.

c) Batch Size

You must ensure that the quantity of the batch does not exceed the maximum limit of the fluid bed dryer.

A proper understanding of the above parameters will ensure that you have the best results from your fluid bed dryer.

What are the Components of Fluid Bed Dryer?

The components of the fluid bed dryer are basically the parts of the fluid bed dryer.

These parts work in conjunction with other parts in a bid to make sure that the FBD works exceptionally well.

You should, however, note that some fluid bed dryers have more parts while others have fewer parts.

This will ultimately depend on the type and design of fluid bed dryer you choose to use.

Here are the main components that make up a fluid bed drying system.

Parts of fluid bed dryer

· Product Container

The product container is part of the FBD where you will place the granules or powder you want to dry.

The main material for making a product container is stainless steel this increasing its durability.

The best product container of a fluid bed dryer will assume a conical shape for proper product delivery.

Apart from that, the shape of the container will assist in proper fluidization process of the products.

· Control Panel or Cabinet

This is the part of the machine where you will determine all the important parameters and operations of the machine.

You will be able to receive and send all the signals of the drying process accordingly.

It gives you control over a range of aspects such as to:

i. Monitor drying parameters

ii. Control process parameters

Basically, this will ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the entire process.

· Exhaust Blower

This is the part of the fluid bed dryer where the contaminated air leaves the fluid bed drying equipment.

It will allow the fluid bed dryer to inject in clean air for drying purposes.

You will also breathe in the fresh air as it gets rid of the contaminated air away from the working station.

· Air Preparation Unit

The system is originally responsible for making the quality of air that comes into the fluid bed dryer better.

It enhances the flow rate of the air resulting in a better performance of the air supply system.

In a nutshell, it controls all the parameters of air flow in the fluid bed dryer.

· Spraying Nozzle

The spraying nozzle is the part that will break the flow of the fluid for drying the granules apart.

It will enhance the flow of the air within the fluid bed dry in a particular pattern.

You will choose the type of nozzle for your equipment depending on the type of application of the fluid bed dryer.

They are available in different designs thus determining the overall outcome of the drying process.

· Exhaust Filter

The filters will help in cleaning the filters subsequently leading to improved and better filters.

You find the exhaust filters right above the processing area of the fluid bed dryer.

It guarantees a steady flow of products in the conical expansion of the FBD system.

· Air Distribution Plate

It is a fundamental component that will assist in the overall processing of materials in a fluid bed dryer.

Normally, the air distribution plate is on the lowest section of the product container.

It will assist in the proper distribution of the fluidizing are between external and internal partitions.

You will also find the air distribution plate in different variations and sizes depending on the machine design.

· Solution Delivery System

You can also identify it as the liquid delivery system of the continuous fluid bed dryer.

It ensures that the solution flows through the atomizer without experiencing any hitches.

It comes complete with a pump, magnetic filter as well as a liquid tank.

· Heating System

This is the part of the fluid bed dryer where the air or the fluid is heated to gain the right temperatures.

The fluid will flow from the heating system all the way to the material tank for proper drying of the particles.

· Dust Collector

You will depend on the dust collector of the machine to collect dust and reduce wastage and emissions.

It will help in the removal od suspended dust from the ambient air thus improving indoor air quality.

It also helps in the reduction of outdoor emissions thus reducing pollution of the air.

How does Fluid Bed Dryer Work?

This is the process that the device undergoes in a bid to get rid of excess moisture from the granules and powders.

In this case, you are going to go through the drying process of the fluid bed dryer among the other processes.

Fundamentally, the main working principle of a fluid bed dryer is the fluidization of different materials.

During the fluidization process, hot air will flow through the bed of the fluid bed dryer and on to the products.

Here is the complete step by step process on how the fluid bed dryer works.

Preparation Stage

First, you will prepare the machine well and ensure that it is in proper working condition.

Power on the machine and leave it on standby mode as you prepare the materials you intend to dry.

After that, you will pour the material onto the product or material container.

Make sure that you adhere to the minimum and maximum capacities of the fluid bed dryer.

Programming the Machine

At this point, you will have to use the control panel to key in the working details of the fluid bed dryer.

You will program the machine according to the time you expect it to take in drying the materials.

Also, you will specify the level you expect the materials to dry to with specific drying parameters.

After that, you will allow the machine to start processing by pressing the start button.

Heating the Air

The electric mechanical motor inside the machine will power up the fan to such air from outside.

The air will go through a heating system inside the fluid bed dryer and gets extremely hot in the process.

It is this hot air that will go through the fluid bed and assist in drying of the particles.

Actual Drying Process

The machine will allow hot air to move from the hot air reservoir and through the tubes towards the product container.

Once it reaches the product container, it goes through the tiny perforations of the fluid bed plate onto the particles.

It streams through the tiny airspaces between the particles.

As it moves through these particles, the velocity of the air increases forcing the particles to move upwards as well.

The force that the speed of movement creates is the same as the force of the gravitational pull.

This leads to the suspension of the granules upwards by the force of air and downwards by force of gravity.

Consequently, the bed will be fluidized. As a result, the granules will remain suspended within the fluids.

It also moves at a particular pressure that will allow proper contact of the air with every granule particle.

The dry, hot air will then suck all the moisture it needs from the particles it gets in contact with.

It carries with it the moisture thus leaving the granules with the right moisture content.

 Getting Rid of the Contaminated Air

The contaminated air will move through the filters thus allowing the machine to remove the fine particulate granules.

As it moves out, it goes through the exhaust system which will get rid of all the contaminated air.

Final Stage

Finally, you will be able to stop the machine or it will stop automatically after achieving the right drying parameters.

You will confirm if the powder has the right moisture content that you need before removing them.

What is Vacuum Tray Dryer?

Vacuum try dryer

Vacuum tray dryer is a machine that you will use to dry high grade, oxygen, and temperature sensitive products.

Apart from that, you can use it to dry hygroscopic substances which you will dry to very low residual moisture levels.

It ensures that it dries the hygroscopic substances to very low residual moisture content levels.

It is the only machine that you can use in the process of drying glutinous, lumpy products.

You can also use the vacuum tray dryer to dry products of low pomposity.

What are the Common Problems with Fluidized Bed Dryer Principle?

You may come across a few problems in the process of using the fluid bed dryer.

The problem may be as a result of the machine, the process of drying, or the materials you are drying.

Here are some of the problems that you might encounter and how you can solve the problems.

Fluid bed drying system

1) Product Degrading

You may experience the degradation of products due to high temperature.

You can solve this by properly distributing the particles and then lowering the temperature.

It is also important to know the right drying temperatures for all the products you intend to dry.

2) Longer Drying Time than Usual

You might experience a longer drying time that it usually takes due to a higher moisture content in the materials.

In this case, you will do a pre-drying process on the powder or granules.

Apart from that, you may decide to adopt a double drying technique on the powder or granules.

3) Reduction in Particle Size

You may experience a reduction in the size of the particles that you are drying due to an increase in residence time.

You need to reduce the residence time accordingly to sort this problem.

4) High Moisture Content in Dry Products

There are situations when the moisture content in dry products is higher than you expect it to be.

This is a result of the internal diffusion of the granules or particles.

You may solve this problem by reducing the residence time within the fluid bed dryer.

5) Inability of Particles to Fluidize

With all the parameters intact, you will realize that the particles do not fluidize at all.

This can happen due to a problem with the electrostatic charges in the fluid bed dryer.

You can sort the problem out by efficiently earthing the fluid bed dryer.

6) Shrinkage on the Surface

The final results of the particles or powders may have the right moisture content but with shrinks on the surface.

The main reason for this is high temperatures that exceed the normal drying temperatures.

You should have the right drying temperatures for every product so that you can maintain a proper temperature balance.

Which Factors Determine the Fluid Bed Dryer Design and Construction?

The fluid bed dryer usually consists of different components under a particular assembly to make it more efficient.

There are numerous factors that the machine depends on to determine the design as well as the construction.

Here are some of the parameters that you will look at when determining the design and construction of fluid bed dryers.

• Volume
• Heat Transfer
• Mobility
• Efficiency of the Fluid Bed Dryer
• Compactness of the Fluid Bed Dryer

It is important to note that the working principle will remain to be the same despite the type of design.

Despite that, you need to have a proper design that will suit your needs accordingly.

Some of the greatest design options that you can choose from include:

i. Contact tubes and plates of the fluid bed dryer

ii. Recirculating contained gas design

iii. High-temperature FBD

iv. Integral drying/cooling

v. Multiple zones and stages

vi. Stirred FBD

vii. Fully automated operation

viii. Deep fluid beds

ix. Explosion resistant design

What should you consider when buying Fluid Bed Drying Equipment?

When buying a fluid bed drying equipment, there are certain things that you need to look at.

You have to ensure that you have all the right features that will appeal to you without compromise.

You have to consider all the factors that are available in a quality fluid bed dryer as you make your decision.

Some of the factors that require your special attention include:

• Proper transfer of heat without consuming a lot of energy
• Multifunctional fluid bed dryer that will heat, dry, cool and granulate the particles perfectly.
• An adaptable fluid bed dryer with either the continuous or batch drying capabilities.
• Vibration features which will assist in proper processing of the fluid bed dryer particles and granules.
• Credible type of material such as stainless steel, nickel alloy or carbon steel.
• Proper customization to meet your individual needs
• A machine that is easy to operate especially with a human machine interface for proper operation.
• A machine that is easy to maintain at a lower cost thus increasing the production time.
• Cost of the machine in terms of the initial cost of purchasing the machine and the installation cost.
• Speed of operation in terms of how fast the machine can deliver the drying properties on the particles.

 Fluid bed drying system

Which Types of Fluid Bed Dryers are there?

When looking for a fluid bed dryer to purchase, you can either choose to purchase one of the two main types.

Among the two main types, there are different sub-categories of flui9d bed dryers that you can choose from.

Implying that, you will choose the type of fluid bed dryer according to your production requirements.

Here are the main types of fluid bed dryers that you can choose from.

1) Conventional Fluid Bed Dryer

A conventional fluid bed dryer is the type of machine that does not necessarily have modern features.

The machine is very effective despite missing the modernized features and technological advancements which is task specific to drying specifications.

Implying that the machine relies on the conventional features that allow it to dry the materials effectively.

Here are the main examples of fluid bed dryers that you can choose from.

i. Batch Fluid Bed Dryer

ii. Semi-continuous Fluid Bed Dryer

iii. Well- mixed Fluid Bed Dryer

iv. Continuous Fluid Bed Dryer

v. Plug Fluid Bed Dryer

These types of machines have different features and parts of various capacities but tend to have similar operating principles.

Advantages of the Conventional Fluid Bed Dryer

i. It is very effective when it comes to the general uses of the fluid bed drying equipment.

ii. The cost of purchasing the conventional fluid bed dryer is low in comparison to that of the modified fluid bed dryers.

iii. It comes complete with multi-functional features enabling it to perform different functions.

iv. Provides proper efficiency when it comes to proper processing without deprivation of the product quality.

v. It is efficient when it comes to different modes of operation

vi. Despite the conventional features, the machine is very fast in its operations.

vii. You can easily use the machine with a few instances of proper training since it is easy to use.

viii. The machine also supports massive output thus allowing you to produce more in a short period.

ix. It is also very efficient, durable and easy to clean.

Disadvantages of the Conventional Fluid bed Dryer

i. You cannot use the conventional fluid bed dryer in performing specific drying applications of the fluid bed dryer.

ii. Due to the big size of the machine, it becomes extremely difficult to move it from one place to another.

2) Modified Fluid Bed Dryer

Modified fluid bed dryers are specific type of conventional fluid bed dryers with specific technological advancements for increased efficiency and production.

It is an improvement on several conventional fluid bed dryers thus eliminating the challenges of the conventional fluid bed dryers.

Here are the different types of modified fluid bed dryers that you can choose to fit your production specifications.

i. Spouted Fluid Bed Dryer

ii. Heat Pump Fluid Bed Dryers

iii. Mechanically Assisted Fluid Bed Dryer

iv. Hybrid Fluid Bed Dryer

v. Pulsating Fluid Bed Dryer

vi. Swirl Fluidizers

vii. Vibrated Fluid bed Dryers

viii. Recirculating Fluid Bed Dryers

ix. Jetting Fluid Bed Dryers

You will realize that most of the modified fluid bed dryers conform to the specific applications.

Advantages of the Modified Fluid Bed Dryers

i. Modified fluid bed dryers are easy to operate

ii. Apart from that, this type of machine has durable construction

iii. You can easily clean the modified fluid bed dryers since it requires less maintenance.

iv. The modified fluid bed dryers are highly effective and specific to particular production needs.

v. It has custom features that enable you to attain specific high results in the production process.

Disadvantages of the Modified Fluid Bed Dryers

i. You cannot use specific modified fluid bed dryers to perform different functions thus eliminating the multifunctionality of the machine.

ii. The cost of purchasing different types of modified fluid bed dryers at different instances is also high.

What is a Multi-functional Fluid Bed Dryer?

 Multi-functional fluid bed processor

Multi-functional fluid bed dryer is a type of machine that you can use in performing multiple functions in material processing.

Most importantly, you can use the multifunctional fluid bed dryer in performing a number of applications such as:

• Blending of different materials
• Drying of granules and powders among other types of materials
• Granulating of different types of powders
• Coating of different types of substances

Using a multifunctional fluid bed dryer increases the convenience of the fluid bed drying machines.

You will be able to perform all the functions conveniently and accordingly.

Here are the main types of multifunctional fluid bed dryers that you can choose from.

1. Fluid Bed Dryer and Coater

This is a type of fluid bed drying machine that has additional coating functions on different particles.

It comes complete with side, top, and bottom spray coating appliances.

Applications of the Fluid Bed Dryer and Coater

You can use the machine in various R&D applications and demonstration needs for educational purposes.

Apart from that, you can use it in other industries such as the pharmaceutical, chemical industry for mass production.

You will employ the machine in the food industry for maximum processing and drying of instant food.

Advantages of Using the Fluid bed Dryer ad Coater

It comes complete with epic features thus offering high efficiency and higher product quality.

The machine has maximum flexibility that will integrate the equipment for maximum operations.

You can place it to stand firm on a table or mount on the wall to ensure stability during the mechanical processing.

It also allows for nitrogen recirculation especially when you are dealing with oxygen sensitive materials.

You can use the machine in drying large volumes of organic solvents thus adhering to different environmental requirements.

It provides the most convenient and easy operations when it comes to filling and discharging of materials.

It has a systematic control panel that allows you to properly control and monitor the production specifications.

2. Fluid Bed Dryer and Granulator

Fluid bed dryer and granulator is a machine that you can use in mixing, drying and granulating of different materials.

The main components of this type of multi-functional equipment include:

• Product container
• Gas distribution system
• Blinders spray system
• Gas inlet chamber

Advantages of using the Fluid Bed Dryer and Granulator

You can use it in the execution of three major spraying functions including side, bottom, and top spraying applications.

Top spray granulation is the process by which the machine sprays active ingredients on different products for granule homogeneity.

Bottom spray coating involves the separation of granules from one another under suspension.

You can also identify it as an air suspension coating of granules.

Side coating involves coating of the granules using high for content using spray binder and charging powder.

Apart from that, you can use the machine in the drying of wet powders and granules.

It meets all the cGMP regulations and production specifications.

It comes complete with an intelligent touch screen surface for proper programing, controlling and monitoring.

Features of the Fluid Bed Dryer and Granulator

It consists of two sets of valves that have automatic interactions hence providing a continuous suspension of powders and granules.

It has secure cleanliness provides that it has filters that clean the incoming air through the inlet.

3. Fluid Bed Dryer, Coater and Granulator

You can use the fluid bed dryer, coater, and granulator in performing multiple functions including:

• Top spray granulation of different powders
• Bottom spray pelleting
• Tangent spray coating

You will be able to use the machine for both economic and technological benefits.

It has an intelligent control system that makes it easy to send and receive production signals.

It has a variety of spray nozzles that you can choose from.

Which Materials can you Dry in FBD?

You can use the fluid bed dryer to dry different types of materials such as powders, pellets, and granules.

 Fluid bed dryer system

What is Use Requirement Specification for Fluid Bed Dryer?

The user requirement specification is a document you can use to list all the requirements you need in a fluid bed dryer.

It will stipulate all your needs alongside the regulatory requirements of producing this type of machine.

You will use the URS as the main benchmark that will assist you in making a quotation.

Apart from that, you can use it in making the most out of the custom fluid bed dryer machines.

You will avoid any form of miscommunication by using the user requirement specifications.

When writing a user requirement specification document, you must include the following:

• Approval Section
• Introduction where you focus on scope, purpose, general description and other regulatory requirements.
• Machine specifications which include utility requirements, specifications, material construction, physical data, safety, cleaning, maintenance as well as spare parts.
• Plans for the machine as well as the necessary documentation
• Samples of different materials for testing purposes
• Responsibilities of different parties involved
• Factory Assessment Test (FAT) requirements
• Site Acceptance Test including the commissioning, validation, and training of personnel.
• Documents detailing the quality standards
• Export packaging styles, insurance, delivery FOB and protection.

What is the Bulk Density of the Processing Material in Fluid Bed Dryer?

Bulk density is the amount of processing materials that a fluid bed dryer machine can comfortably accommodate.

This includes the bulk density of different materials such as granules, powders, and divided solids.

You can use it in reference to different substances including chemical substances, mineral components, foodstuffs, and other ingredients.

How does Rotary Dryer compare to Fluid Bed Dryer?

When you intend to purchase a fluid bed dryer, you can choose between a rotary dryer and fluid bed dryer.

Rotary dryer

These two machines differ in terms of different features and operations in the following aspects.

· Material Consideration

Rotary dryers have heavy-duty construction with high capacity capabilities, with significant variance and feedback.

It requires the use of heavy-duty materials thus yielding quality products from different types of raw materials.

You can also use it to process heavy duty loads such as materials in the mining industry.

Fluid bed dryers, on the other hand, require specific uniformity in specific types of products in size distribution and moisture content.

You can use it to process different materials that do not require any form of material degradation.

· Spatial Footprint

You will require a larger spatial footprint when it comes to the rotary dryers since it is bigger than the other machines.

Fluid bed dryers, on the other hand, are small and comes with the advantage of being modular.

This allows them to be added to a complete production system with the ability of continuous growth and development.

· Operational Consideration

When using the rotary dryer, you will need very little forms of supervision in comparison to using the fluid bed dryer.

Rotary dryers do not have adverse effects especially on the fluctuation of different processing conditions and feedstocks.

Fluid bed dryers require a consistent processing environment as variations in operations lead to major problems.

· Energy Consumption

Rotary dryers will consume very little energy especially when it comes to the different operations of the machine.

Fluid bed dryers will require more energy as it is more specific in terms of its operational requirements.

· Lifespan and Maintenance

The lifespan of both machines is high with very easy and simple procedures for proper maintenance of the machines.

What are the Fluidized Bed Dryer Qualification Documents?

Fluid bed dryer qualification documents are the documents that you will receive after a thorough inspection of the machine.

Here are the main qualification documents that you will receive.

1) Factory Assessment Test Documentation

You will receive this document after performing a thorough inspection of the machine at the factory level.

Your manufacturer will perform the test in your presence for proper approval before issuing the document.

2) SAT Assessment Test Documentation

This is a test that you will perform once you get to the site of installation.

After the installation process, you have to make sure that the machine works perfectly.

After that, you will receive the site assessment test documentation as proof of a test passed.

Which Material is used to Construct Fluid Bed Dryer?

When you are constructing a fluid bed dryer, you must consider the current good manufacturing practices.

This will ensure that you use the right materials for the contact parts such as AISI 316.

You will use the AISI 304 for the non-contact parts of the fluid bed dryer.

What are Fluid Bed Dryer Quality Standards and Certifications?

When looking for a fluid bed dryer, ensure that it conforms to the following quality standards and certifications.

Here are the main quality standards and certifications of the fluid bed dryer machine.

• Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)
• International Standards Organization (ISO) Quality Certification
• Food and Drug Administration Quality Certifications
• CE quality certification for the electrical appliances

What is Fluid Bed Dryer Temperature for Drying Material?

The fluid bed dryer temperature that you will use will vary according to the type of products you intend to dry.

You will set the temperature of the machine according to the type of product that you intend to dry.

Does FBD has Safety Features?

Yes, FBD has safety features that will protect you and the machine.

You will not get unnecessary injuries when it comes to using fluid bed dryer machines.

Additionally, the safety features of the machine will help in protecting the integrity of the machine.

Here are the main safety features of the machine that you must look at before making a purchase.

• Interlocking mechanism of the product bowl
• Proper controls that lead to the automatic control of temperature and process cycles.
• Explosion flap at the retarding chamber to protect you from explosion.
• Safer earthing system for the static currents
• Proper installation of the air pressure switch ensuring maximum control of pressure.
• Relay protection in case of an overload
• Emergency stop button in case of a problem with the machine

What are the Misconceptions of Fluidized Bed Drying Process?

You may come across various myths and misconceptions about the fluid bed drying process that are not true.

Here are the main myths and misconceptions that might discourage you.

• Attrition of products during the fluid bed drying process

The other myth revolves around the fact that the machine will lead to the attrition of different particles.

• Fine particles

People often believe that you cannot use the fluid bed dryer in the process of dying fine particles.

• Hard to Clean

Fluid bed dryers are not hard to clean.

All you have to do is follow the cleaning manual to effectively and easily clean the machine.

What is the Purpose of Drying Material in the Pharmaceutical Industry using FBD?

You can use the fluid bed drying machine in the drying process of the different products.

Here are the main functions as to why you should perform solid drying.

• It increases the shelf life of the products
• It enhances the calorific value of different types of fuels
• You will also reduce the cost of transport
• It helps in the improvement of different product properties such as compressibility and flowability.
• It will also make the materials more suitable for handling
• Apart from that, it helps in proper preservation of the materials.

What are the Considerations when Choosing Pharmaceutical Dryers?

Generally, when you are looking for a good pharmaceutical dryer, you must have special considerations.

The main considerations that you need to look at include:

• You have o get a dryer that is safe, economical and reliable.
• It must have proper pollution controls
• The cost of operation and maintenance must be within proper limits
• You should go for a machine which consumes little energy

I hope at this point, you can successfully choose a suitable fluid bed dryer for your material processing needs.

For questions of inquiries on fluid bed dryer systems, SaintyCo experts are here to help.