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[July 2000]
Ceramics Manufacturers offers trials of Fast Volumetrically-assisted Drying
Ceramics manufacturers can assess the advantages of the latest volumetrically- assisted drying techniques on their specific products, using a pilot scale kiln developed by EA Technology at its headquarters in Capenhurst, near Chester.
Tests already undertaken by the energy specialist on ceramic components, including bricks, moulds, refractories, heavy clay and sanitaryware, have proved that the addition of either radio frequency (RF) or microwaves to conventional drying equipment can reduce cycle times by up to a factor of three, with no energy cost penalties.
They have also shown improved quality in the dried product and commensurate reduction in scrap, due to the minimisation of thermal gradients in the body of materials.
"We have proved the principle of volumetrically-assisted drying beyond doubt. Now we want to demonstrate the benefits that volumetrically-assisted drying can deliver to manufacturers with particular production requirements," said EA Technology's Mike Bond.
"By making our pilot kiln available, we are enabling producers to evaluate the technology thoroughly in relation to their own requirements, without risk."
The EA Technology kiln will accommodate products up to one metre in length, with a maximum load of up to 1000kg.
The kiln can be used for conventional heating, together with the addition of either radio frequency or microwave heating, to provide direct comparisons of the techniques available. It can operate at up to 180oC and uses standard thermocouples to monitor external and internal temperatures throughout the cycle.
Mike added: "Companies that submit components for trial will be able to look at the effects of adjusting the inputs from the two sources - conventional heating, radio frequency or microwave. This should produce a highly accurate assessment of what the technology can achieve in their own production environments."
More details from: www.eatechnology.com.
ENDS