JBT FoodTech Single Pass Dryer and Smart Dryer system

Fresh fruits and vegetables are washed and sanitised after they are harvested - a process that enhances food safety but can remove the natural wax coating from the produce surface. To lock in moisture and maintain freshness of the produce, a postharvest protective coating typically is applied. Two critical aspects in the coating application process ensure that the entire surface of the fruit or vegetable is covered evenly and that the coating is thoroughly dried and set. Without uniform setting or curing of the coating, moisture in the produce can evaporate and cause dehydration, which can quickly deteriorate the overall quality of the produce and impact its marketability.

The JBT FoodTech Single Pass Dryer has, for decades, offered the thorough drying process needed to properly cure produce coatings. Now, JBT FoodTech can help fresh produce processors reduce their dryer energy usage with the launch of the JBT FoodTech Smart Dryer system. The Smart Dryer system is an automated monitoring program that works with the Single Pass Dryer to maintain even heat distribution and increase energy efficiency. When operating a Single Pass Dryer with an integrated Smart Dryer system, it is claimed that processors can save approximately 20% per year on utility bills versus a standard Single Pass Dryer.

The Smart Dryer system can optimise maintenance and operation of the Single Pass Dryer by utilising microprocessor technology that monitors and controls dryer temperature and humidity, air duct screen cleanliness, process temperature and exhaust air. Gas controls, temperature sensors, humidity monitors and integrated exhaust volume control provide consistent temperature and humidity levels.

A touch-screen user interface offers a visual display of the system’s functions and sensors, enabling maintenance personnel to easily monitor controls and quickly troubleshoot.

The Single Pass Dryer utilises variable heat control and warm air recirculation to maintain temperature throughout the dryer. High-velocity air uniformly covers the fruits and vegetables throughout the length and width of the unit and thermal efficiency is maintained through consistent air recirculation and humidity reduction. Since humidity control is critical to dryer performance, a portion of humid air is exhausted during operation so the lowest levels of humidity are maintained during use.

In the first half of the drying cycle, wet fruit remains stationary on the conveyor to cure the coating application and remove any moisture. In the second half, produce can be rotated to complete the drying process and build shine. Since the produce dries in a single pass without transfers, the Single Pass Dryer minimises peel damage and increases throughput.

The Smart Dryer system now comes standard with the Single Pass Dryer to automatically keep the dryer running at peak performance levels, with reduced operational costs and downtime. The Smart Dryer system is also available as an upgrade to existing dryers.