Air drying solution for leafy vegetables
In the processing of delicate leafy vegetables like spinach or cut iceberg lettuce, achieving a low attached moisture percentage without damaging the produce is essential. Traditional drying methods can be inadequate, leading to higher moisture retention and potential spoilage.
Ensure low moisture retention with air drying
The Sormac air drying tunnel LDT-140 is specifically designed for drying delicate leafy vegetables. The process begins with a preliminary dewatering step via a dewatering conveyor. During the drying phase, the product is exposed to an upward air stream at temperatures between 25 and 30 °C, which causes the produce to float and release moisture. This air stream is first cooled in a heat exchanger to about 5 °C, where water vapor condenses and is removed. To regain its moisture absorption ability, the air is then reheated to 25-30 °C in a second heat exchanger. Utilizing a glycol solution for cooling and heating, the tunnel maintains product temperatures significantly lower than the air temperature due to surface evaporation effects. This allows for moisture values below 2% to be achieved. The closed system design minimizes energy dissipation, and the integrated cooling section preps the product to packaging temperature. Sormac’s air drying tunnel is ideal for products like spinach, baby leaf, and cut iceberg lettuce.
Benefits
- Minimal product damage through thermal drying
- Achieves surface moisture levels below 2%
- Energy-efficient closed system design
- Integrated cooling section for optimal packaging temperature
- Hygienic design allows for easy cleaning