Wheel Dryers for Beside-the-Press, Small Central Applications

A new line of wheel dryers from AEC is designed to provide precise, high-performance moisture removal for most beside-the-press drying applications and small central systems.

Introduced during March’s PTXPO trade show, the line is available in three styles, ADP, ADW and ADC, and is billed as a direct replacement for AEC’s earlier NGX and RDX series dryers. The dryer line is available in 50 to 400 pph — and larger models by request, the company said..

The dryers features AEC’s Smart Mode technology, which monitors both the process and return air temperatures. Airflow is automatically reduced once the temperatures are consistent and the material is completely dry. This reportedly results in energy savings, as well as protecting the resin from over-drying and degradation.

Additional options include a weekly timer, integrated or external dew point sensor, integration with Industry 4.0 equipment, and a biomaterial version for drying temperatures below 122°F (50°C).

For precision control, the AD series also utilizes a high-resolution HMI touch-screen. All drying data is visible on a single screen: drying temperature, dew point, material throughput, and total energy consumption.

“By providing energy savings up to 40% and more, while not requiring compressed air or cooling water, the AD Series Dryer will be a game changer for the industry,” says Mark Johansen, group v.p. marketing and product management. “And, the precision control possible with our Smart Mode prevents the thermal, chemical and physical material degradation that can result from long drying times at high temperatures and high air flow.”